Transport of Copper Bearing Solution in Remote Mining

Transport of Copper Bearing Solution in Remote Mining

Problem: A mining facility in Chile required a reliable and flexible solution to recover and transport copper-bearing solution just over 2 miles (3.5 km), from the leach pad to the process ponds. The operation had to be performed in a harsh, remote environment with no fixed infrastructure, while minimizing pressure losses and allowing the system to be easily relocated based on operational needs.

Pharmaceutical Solvent

Pharmaceutical Solvent

Problem: The Boulder, CO Roche Pharmaceutical manufacturing facility uses a 3" air operated double diaphragm pump to transfer methylene chloride from an underground tank to various spots throughout the plant site. The diaphragm pump is ideal for this application because it creates enough vacuum to lift the methylene chloride 12' at an elevation of 5300' above sea level, even when outside temperatures reach 90-100°F. The reciprocating action of the pump causes the discharge pipe and other components in the system to vibrate and shift.

Rocket Propellant

Rocket Propellant

Problem: A nationally recognized leader in the manufacture of solid rocket propellant uses air operated double diaphragm (AODD) pumps to transfer a particularly aggressive fluid to a unique piece of equipment that requires a constant and steady flow. The reciprocating action of the pump causes excessive pulsation in the discharge piping. Constant pulsation causes erratic flow which prevents the pumps from performing as required.

Sewage Treatment

Sewage Treatment

Problem: The Maquoketa, Iowa sewage treatment facility uses a twin disc type reciprocating pump to transfer pretreated sewage sludge from a clarifier to a digester. The twin disc pump is ideal for this application because this type of pump has no valves that can clog or restrict flow. Each disc of the pump transfers about one gallon of liquid with each stroke. The reciprocating action of the pump causes the discharge pipe and other components in the system to vibrate. This constant shaking causes joint leakage and premature failure of instrumentation. Pipe support brackets have been pulled loose from the wall.

Sewage Treatment

Sewage Treatment

Problem: The City of Colorado Springs WWTP uses Abel mechanical double diaphragm pumps to transfer sludge throughout their facility. The pump is ideal for their application due to the solids handling capability, and the fact that the pump is a positive displacement pump which allows the flow to be metered. The reciprocating action of the pump causes excessive pulsation in the discharge piping. The constant pulsation has caused broken pipes, failed gaskets, damaged valves, and has pulled pipe supports from foundations.

Pulsation in Dual Hose Pump Application

Pulsation in Dual Hose Pump Application

Problem: A systems integrator in Pennsylvania was building a new lime slurry storage and transfer silo for an end user in Georgia. The system included two 35 mm peristaltic hose pumps operating in a challenging lime slurry application.

Historically, the integrator did not always include pulsation dampeners on these types of builds, which had led to past issues with inconsistent pump behavior. For this new project, two pulsation dampeners were added to improve reliability. During system testing, however, one of the dampeners failed, creating concern around schedule impact and readiness for shipment.
With the silo build nearing completion and the delivery date approaching, the issue needed to be resolved quickly to avoid delays to the end user.