You need to know certain things about your mine before choosing mining pumps. You should also know whether it is a surface mine, underground mine or dredging operation. Consider where the pumping application is located in relation to your mine.

It is time to focus on the details of your application once all this knowledge is in hand. This will lead to another set of questions that you must answer to provide complete information about every pumping application within the site

Considerations to make for proper dewatering

Proper mine dewatering is a very important component of every mining operation. There is a possibility of flooding and losing your equipment if you use pumps that are too small or if you use an insufficient number of pumps.

The motor could burn your pump if you choose a pump that is too large as it won’t have enough time to cool off before running again. The pump could also experience suction cavitation. This happens when your pump is starving for water.

Some of the most common pumps that people use for dewatering are submersible turbines, submersible centrifugal, and vertical turbines. You can install them in a lake, pond or a well. You can find engine-driven centrifugal pumps for your application. Each type of pump has its own cons and pros that you have to consider to meet the different requirements for every application.

You should consider several factors to ensure you choose the right mining pump for your application. You should determine the static head that you need to overcome. The needed flow won’t be achieved if the pump can’t produce enough pressure that overcome the vertical distance.

Consider the flow

You should consider the flow required to move the amount of water you have to keep your mine site dry. You should know the style of pump that will achieve your desired flow. Do you need a submersible pump or a vertical turbine pump? You need to know the length of the suction line if self-priming. This will determine the friction loss and the total height that can be pulled with the suction lift. You should identify the type and size of the material of the suction line.

You should ensure the size of the suction line is greater or equal to the size of the inlet port or suction. This will reduce the possibility of cavitation. The length and type of materials of the discharge line are very important considerations. These items factor into the dynamic head. This is a very important part of pump selection.

Underground applications

You should determine if it is a mining safety and health association application if it is an underground mining application. All the equipment that goes into the locations should meet the strict protection criteria for those working there. Most underground dewatering uses submersible mining pumps. This is because these pumps have quick lead times and easy mobility. There are potential hazards to the ease of changing out these pumps.