Slurry Pump Impeller Selection

Slurry pump impeller is one of the most important parts of centrifugal slurry pumps. Depending on the application, slurry pump impeller selection is crucial to slurry pump performance. Slurry applications can be especially hard on the impeller of slurry pumps because of their abrasive nature. In order slurry pumps operates efficiently and stand up to the test of time, impeller has to be selected properly for slurry pumps.

Slurry Pump Impeller Type

There are three different types of slurry pump impellers; open, closed, and semi-open. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses, depending on the application. Some are better for solids handling, others are better for high efficiency.

Any type of impeller can be used in slurry applications, but closed slurry pump impellers are more common because they are high efficient and abrasion Resistance,. Open slurry pump impellers are usually used well for high concentration solids as they are less likely to clog. For example, the small fibers in paper stock which, in high densities, may have a tendency to clog the impeller. Pumping slurry can be difficult.

Slurry Pump Impeller Size

The size of slurry pump impeller must be considered to ensure it holds up against abrasive wear. Slurry pump impellers are generally larger in size when compared to slurry pumps for less abrasive liquids. The more “meat” the impeller has, the better it will hold up to the task of pumping harsh slurry mixtures. Just think of slurry pump impeller as a football team’s offensive line. These players are usually large and slow. Throughout the whole game they are beaten up, over and over again, but expected to withstand the abuse. You wouldn’t want small players in this position, just like you wouldn’t want a small impeller on your slurry pumps.

Slurry Pump Speed

Process speed doesn’t have anything to do with choosing slurry pump impeller, but it does have an effect on the life of slurry pump impeller. It is important to find the sweet spot that allows the slurry pump to run as slow as possible, but fast enough to keep solids from settling and clogging. If pumping too fast, the slurry can quickly erode the impeller due to its abrasive nature. This is why it is important to select a larger impeller if possible.

When dealing with slurry, you generally want to go bigger and slower. The thicker the impeller, the better it will hold up. The slower the pump, the less erosion will inflict on the impeller. However, the impeller isn’t the only thing to worry in slurry pump when dealing with slurry. Tough, durable materials of construction are necessary most of the time. Metal slurry pump liners and wear plates are common in slurry applications.