The slurry pump is a heavier and stronger centrifugal pump version used to handle difficult or abrasive applications. Standard centrifugal pumps are used mainly to force clear fluids, while slurry pumps are used for solid hydraulic transportation. The term "slurry pump" refers to all devices used in solid transportation.
More specific names are given to them based on the size of the solid being transported or based upon its particular use. The slurry pump is used to transport mud, clay, silt, and sand in various sizes of solids up to 2 millimeters. Sand and gravel pumps handle the transporting of shingle and gravel in the 2 to the 8-millimeter range.
Additionally, gravel pumps may transport solids up to 50 millimeters in size. Dredge pumps are used to handle solids up to and exceeding 50 millimeters. Specific names are also based on applications or use. Froth pumps handle foaming porridge, especially in flotation.
Carbon transfer pumps provide the gentle hydraulic transportation of carbon in pulp and carbon in leach circuits. Sump pumps are mainly operating pumps from floor sumps that have submerged houses but dry bearings and drives. Submersible pumps, like the name implies, are fully submersed, including the housing and drive.
Depending on the application, the slurry pump can be installed dry, semi-dry, or wet. Most horizontal slurry pumps are installed dry. In this case, bearings and drives are stored from the porridge, and the wet tip is closed. The slurry is free standing and clear of any of the liquids. The vertical tank may also be installed dry.