How to select a slurry pump according to the concentration and particle size of the slurry?

When it comes to choosing a slurry pump in accordance with the concentration and particle size of the slurry, the following considerations are essential:


Slurry Concentration

Low-Concentration Slurry (<10%)

  • For low-concentration slurries, an ordinary centrifugal slurry pump is a viable option. Its straightforward structure and high efficiency make it capable of fulfilling the transportation needs of such slurries.

  • In cases where the slurry is corrosive, a centrifugal pump crafted from stainless steel, like 304 stainless steel or 316L stainless steel, can be employed. This choice enhances the pump's corrosion resistance.


Medium - Concentration Slurry (10% - 30%)

  • Generally, a slurry pump equipped with a semi-open impeller, such as the ZJ Slurry Pump, is utilized. The semi-open impeller features a broader flow channel. This allows a certain quantity of solid particles to pass through, reducing the likelihood of clogging. It also offers good wear resistance and efficiency.

  • For highly abrasive slurries, a slurry pump with an impeller and pump casing fabricated from wear-resistant materials, such as high-chromium cast iron, can be selected. This helps to prolong the equipment's service life.


High-Concentration Slurry (>30%)

  • Usually, it is necessary to opt for a slurry pump with an open impeller, for example, the FSP Vertical Slurry Pump. The open-impeller structure enables the slurry pump to convey large particles and high-concentration slurries without getting clogged.

  • To enhance the slurry pump's wear and corrosion resistance, the flow-through components can be made from wear-resistant and corrosion-resistant materials like rubber and polyurethane. Alternatively, a wear-resistant coating can be sprayed onto the metal surface.


Particle Size

Fine-Particle Slurry (<0.1mm)

  • A slurry pump with a smaller impeller gap, such as some small vertical slurry pumps, can be chosen. Since the particles are fine, the wear on the pump is relatively minimal, and the smaller impeller gap aids in enhancing the pump's efficiency and head.

  • For the transportation of fine-particle slurry with stringent precision requirements, a positive displacement pump, like a screw pump, can be selected. This type of pump can achieve more stable and accurate transportation.


Medium - Particle Slurry (0.1mm - 1mm)

  • Centrifugal slurry pumps, such as the FAH slurry pump, are a common choice. The design of its impeller and pump casing can accommodate the impact and wear caused by medium-sized particles. By appropriately choosing materials and structures, the normal operation and service life of the pump can be ensured.

  • To mitigate the wear of particles on the impeller, a replaceable impeller liner structure can be adopted. This facilitates timely replacement once the liner is worn, thereby reducing maintenance costs.


Coarse-Particle Slurry (>1mm)

  • Priority should be given to using slurry pumps with wide flow channels, such as Heavy-duty slurry pumps. The impeller and pump casing of this type of pump have a large flow area, enabling coarse particles to pass smoothly and reducing the probability of blockage and wear.

  • For slurries with large particles and high concentrations, it may also be feasible to contemplate using dual pumps in series or specially designed large-particle slurry pumps. These options can supply sufficient head and flow to transport the slurry.


In the actual selection process, it is also imperative to take into account other properties of the slurry (such as corrosiveness, temperature, etc.), the conveying distance, head requirements, and on-site installation conditions. A comprehensive consideration of these factors is necessary to determine the most suitable slurry pump model and specifications. If required, it is advisable to consult a professional slurry pump manufacturer or technician to obtain more precise selection recommendations.