Slurry Pump Selection Guide: 7-Step Process for Optimal Performance

Slurry Pump Selection Process

• Calculate Flow Rate
• Determine Static Head
• Evaluate Pump Performance Corrections
• Size Pipe Diameter
• Calculate System Head Loss
• Determine Total Dynamic Head (TDH)
• Select Pump Type & Materials

1. Calculate Flow Rate

Key Factors

• Solids volume to be transported
• Target solids concentration (% by volume)
• Liquid/slurry density
  ▶️ Visual: Formula diagram: Q = (Solids tonnage/hr) ÷ [SG × Cw]

2. Determine Static Head

• Measure vertical elevation difference between:
  Suction point (intake)
  Discharge point
• Net Static Head = Discharge elevation – Suction elevation
  ▶️ Visual: Pump system elevation diagram with height markers

3. Evaluate Pump Performance Corrections

Critical slurry parameters affecting efficiency:

• d50 particle size (median particle diameter)
• Solids concentration (% vol)
• Dry solids SG (Specific Gravity)
• Impeller diameter
  ▶️ Visual: d50 explanation graphic with sieves and particle distribution

4. Size Pipe Diameter

• Optimal velocity range: 1.5-4 m/s
• Balance:
  ✅ Minimize friction loss
  ✅ Maintain particle suspension
  ❌ Prevent settling (critical for coarse slurries)
  ▶️ Visual: Velocity vs. particle size chart with “safe operating zone”

5. Calculate System Head Loss

Includes friction losses from:

• Piping length & fittings
• Valves & elbows
• Discharge nozzles
  ▶️ Visual: Animated head loss calculator with pipe network

6. Determine Total Dynamic Head (TDH)

• TDH = Static Head + Friction Head Loss
  ▶️ Visual: Pump overlay showing TDH at operating point

7. Select Pump Type & Materials

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