PUMPS
With GIW ® SLYsight , customers are informed of exactly which parts need attention , when they require replacement , and how adjustments can be made safely
pump wear performance , KSB GIW utilises our proprietary wear monitoring technology GIW ® SLYsight . GIW ® SLYsight , using custom sensors at strategic locations , measures the actual wear
rate of a GIW ® Slurry Pump ’ s parts , including the internal clearance between the suction liner and the impeller , also known as the ‘ nose gap .’”
He says this enhanced monitoring system provides real-time data during nose gap adjustments that not only adds to the pump ’ s maximum wear life but also allows operators to make an efficient and safe adjustment while the pump is operating . With GIW ® SLYsight , customers are informed of exactly which parts need attention , when they require replacement , and how adjustments can be made safely .
Moving into the future , Perry said that KSB GIW is constantly evaluating the pumping needs of the mining markets , and new solutions to address unique and challenging applications are constantly under development . “ We will soon be launching a new and improved LCC 2nd generation design , aimed at further simplifying maintenance , while integrating long requested features such as diverter technology , front pullout shaft seals , and a fully integrated expeller option .”
He added that expansions to the LCC line are also planned in the near future , along with some new variations aimed at the specific requirements of tailings applications . “ KSB GIW has also been anticipating the increasing throughput requirements for mill pumps in hard rock mining , and we have significantly expanded our foundry , machining , and assembly capacities in recent years in preparation for this growing and permanent trend . Products like the DWD-2500 and MDX-850 have been made possible by these expansions , and have expanded the world class
GIW ® Slurry Pump capabilities to unmatched new heights . KSB is also leveraging its well established nonslurry pump products in mining applications , to offer our customers one stop shopping for all of their pumping needs at site . Stay tuned for additional developments in material offerings , enhanced product features , and new product lines altogether in the near future .”
Xylem on the right pump for the right mine
Mine operations rarely fit a mould . Each has challenges determined by what is being mined , local geography , and several other factors . Operators need diverse , flexible technologies to support effective fluid management .
Ken Albaugh , Director of Sales and Services at leading global dewatering pump solutions and technology company Xylem told IM : “ This need is becoming more pronounced as the mining industry expands to meet growing demand for raw materials crucial in technologies like electric vehicles , wind turbines , and solar panels . The challenge is to address demand while using water and other fluids efficiently and more sustainably to comply with stricter regulations and support environmental , social , and governance ( ESG ) goals . To rise to this challenge , many operators are adopting technology throughout the mine water cycle to meet production needs , lower costs , and transform mine fluid management from a cost to a strategic benefit .”
Albaugh adds that every mine has unique operating conditions that require tailored solutions . “ A holistic , customised approach can improve outcomes by reducing production disruptions , cutting costs , improving performance and safety , and mitigating environmental harm . Selecting a pump for mining applications is a multifaceted decision . Material compatibility , operational scale , environmental conditions , adaptability , integration with existing infrastructure , compliance with safety standards , and reliability must all be considered . As digital technology becomes ubiquitous across the industry , operators are also looking at other factors , such as automation capabilities , energy efficiency , and total cost of ownership .”
He continues : “ All of these considerations need to add up to ensure that the pump performs optimally in the challenging conditions of mining applications , balancing performance , cost-efficiency , and durability . The bedrock of the approach is a focus on productivity , reliability , and sustainability . By using durable materials and adding features such as non-return valves and air release installations , pumps are resilient against the harsh conditions of mining environments .”
Xylem says its mining pumps , which are supplied under the Godwin , Goulds Water Technology and Flygt brands , are built and designed for peak performance when run at or near their Best Efficiency Point ( BEP ), which lowers wear and the chance of unexpected maintenance , while Variable Frequency Drives ( VFDs ) enable easy and efficient changes to demand changes , improving performance .
Delta Sand & Gravel Company are a Xylem mining customer based in Eugene , Oregon . A
Goulds Water Technology , a Xylem brand , supplies 18LHC Line Shaft Vertical Turbine Pumps which are equipped with variable frequency drives ( VFDs ) to optimise energy consumption
38 International Mining | JUNE 2024