The impeller is arguably the essential part of your centrifugal pump, and slurry applications can be particularly hard on it. Because of the abrasive nature of the slurry, it’s critical that you choose the right impeller so you can operate effectively without constant breakdowns. Poly Tek can assist you in making that decision.
But before we discuss what to look for in an impeller, let’s take a step back and look at the basics:
The impeller is a rotating component of a centrifugal pump. It transfers energy from the pump motor to the fluid being pumped by accelerating the fluid outwards from the center of rotation. There are three types of impellers–open, closed, and semi-closed—and there are typically 2 to 6 vanes in each one, depending on the requirements.
Technically, you could use any impeller for slurry applications, but open impellers are usually preferred because they don’t clog as easily. Closed impellers don’t do as well with solids, and if they do become clogged, they are harder to clean.
The size of the pump’s impeller is also a consideration when pumping slurry. Compared to pumps that transport less abrasive liquids, slurry impellers are typically larger. These bigger impellers tend to hold up better against the beating that harsh slurry mixtures will give them. Along with the larger size goes a slower speed. The slower the pump runs, the less erosion you’ll impose on the impeller.
Another consideration is the material. While there are several materials from which impellers can be manufactured, polyurethane has become popular for a variety of reasons.
Polyurethane impellers have proven their worth in a variety of industries: chemical, electric power, coal, metallurgy, and building materials, to name a few. Polyurethane is corrosion and wear-resistant, allowing it to withstand seawater, acid, alkali, and salt.
Polyurethane impellers have a longer life, which reduces the frequency of replacing them. And because the material is smooth, there is little chance that the slurry will stick to the impeller and clog the pump.
All of these benefits add up to improved efficiency and fewer issues if you’re pumping slurry.
Poly-Tek designs and manufactures a variety of slurry pump impellers. As custom molders, we specialize in designing a product that meets your needs. Whatever the design, please contact Poly-Tek today to discuss your deblinding ball needs – [email protected] or 510-895-6001.