Innovative mining pumps are used for mining applications, particularly to extract and process minerals. Some basic functions of highly engineered and effective pumping equipment include abrasive sludge dewatering, cement and slurry transfer, water supply and boosting, acid and chemical reagent dosing, and wastewater and tailing transfer.
Some of the different types of mining pumps are:
- Slurry pumps
- Centrifugal pumps
- Magnetic drive pumps
- Submersible pumps
- Borehole pumps
- Diaphragm pumps
- Self-priming pumps
Other types of pumping equipment can include overhung pumps, reciprocating pumps, vertical pumps and between bearing pumps.
Peristaltic hose pumps, also known as tube or roller pumps, are used for handling or moving abrasive and extremely sensitive fluids in a variety of applications. For example, they can transfer, dose or meter a range of fluids, including cosmetic lotions, sodium hypochlorite at water treatment plants or abrasive slurries in mining applications, such as lime milk.
Mining pumping challenges
Extracting desired minerals from the earth’s crust is a complex and capital-intensive procedure that can take up to a decade or more, all the way from discovery to development for commercial production.
Some of the pumping challenges faced by the mining industry include:
- Handling of solid and semi-solid waste
- Transferring ores from mines
- Smelting and refining
Finding mining pumps suppliers
Mining Technology has listed leading suppliers of mining pumps, including Dragflow dredging pumps, submersible pumps, centrifugal pumps, sand transfer and screed pumps, injection grouting pumps, and shotcrete pumps, based on its intel, insights and decades-long experience in the sector.
Valves for the Mining Industry
Mining valves are used across all areas of mining that involve dirty mine water and abrasive slurry.
Mining Valves
Some mining applications of valves include:
- Pumping stations
- Slurry transport
- Dewatering
- Pipelines
- Neutralisation
- Filter isolation
- Tailings
- Acid leaching
- Separation
- Intermediate stations
- Thickeners
- Terminal stations
- Air release
Other common valve applications in the mining industry include lime addition, transmitter location, solution mining, and a range of specific applications, such as pneumatic conveying of dry concentrates.
For full details (including contact details) on the leading companies within this space, download the free Buyer’s Guide below:
Frequently asked questions
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What are the key types of pumps used in mining?
Common types of pumps in mining include slurry pumps, centrifugal pumps, magnetic drive pumps, and peristaltic hose pumps. These pumps handle a range of tasks such as dewatering, transferring slurry, and managing tailings. The choice of pump depends on the specific requirements of the mining operation, such as fluid type and operating conditions.
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What are mining valves used for?
Mining valves are critical for managing the flow of liquids and slurries in various mining processes. Applications include slurry transport, dewatering, acid leaching, and filtration. These valves ensure proper control and flow, protecting equipment and enhancing process efficiency.
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What challenges do pumps face in mining operations?
Mining pumps often deal with highly abrasive and corrosive materials, which can lead to wear and tear. The biggest challenges include handling solid-laden fluids, dealing with slurry viscosity, and operating in harsh environments. Selecting the right materials and designs helps mitigate these issues.
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How do centrifugal pumps benefit mining operations?
Centrifugal pumps are widely used in mining for their ability to efficiently move large volumes of fluid. They are ideal for dewatering and slurry transport. Their simple design and high durability make them a popular choice for continuous operations in tough conditions.
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What role do peristaltic hose pumps play in mining?
Peristaltic hose pumps are highly valued in mining for their ability to handle abrasive slurries and sensitive fluids. They are often used for dosing chemicals, such as lime milk, in a controlled and precise manner. Their non-contact design reduces wear, making them suitable for harsh mining environments.
