PUMPS & PIPELINES
In full flow
Mining pumps underpin success across water and slurry pipelines, grinding mill circuits plus open pit and underground dewatering applications. Paul Moore looks at developments and innovations
Historically, diesel engine-driven pumps have dominated the mining sector due to their independence from fixed electrical infrastructure. However, advances in electrical power distribution, motor technology, and variable frequency drives( VFDs) have expanded the feasibility of electric pumping solutions in environments once considered unsuitable.
For over 50 years, Sykes says it has set the benchmark in dewatering pump technology. It has also engineered highperformance electric motor-driven pump sets to deliver reliable, efficient solutions for a wide range of applications from mines to municipalities. Now, it says it is helping mines cut carbon even further, without cutting performance.“ Our expanded range of electric motor options deliver the same rugged durability and the same flow as our diesel-powered solutions, just with cleaner energy and fewer emissions. Underground, above ground, or anywhere water gets in the way, Sykes pumps deliver futureproof solutions that support low-carbon operations.”
It adds:“ Whether your project demands precision, flexibility, or eco-conscious engineering, our versatile range of electric motor-driven pump sets are ready to deliver.” Designed to reliably meet diverse site requirements including mines and quarries, its electric options include Direct-On-Line( DOL) starter; Soft Starter( SS); and Variable Frequency Drives( VFD).“ Each configuration is built to accommodate a broad range of flow and head combinations, ensuring optimal performance within the pump’ s design capabilities.”
All Sykes pumps it says can be configured to accommodate a mining site’ s specific needs. A standard build pump end is coupled to an electric motor with a galvanised sub frame making this configuration suitable for various applications. A second option is a heavy duty mining specification with in-built discharge pipework making this smart arrangement ideal for additional sensors to be included in the unit. A third option is a heavy duty bespoke engineered pump set complete with VFD allowing this pump to operate from 30-80 Hz, delivering ultimate flexibility.“ Capable of operating from 30Hz to 80Hz, our range of dewatering pumps can have their operating window extended by choosing our electric pump configurations.”
Sykes adds that all of its pumps are built to last, with internal components fabricated from SS316( A351 [ ASTM ]) and external components cast from SG Iron 400 / 12 or 370 / 17( A536 or 60-40-18 [ ASTM ]), depending on the model. They can also be manufactured in higher-grade materials of construction upon request, such as full 316 stainless steel, CD4MCU, chromium steel, SAF 2205, and SAF 2507. To keep pumps working at optimal hydraulic efficiency, Sykes says its innovative wear plate adjustment system is fast, efficient, and simple delivering minimum downtime, reduced labour costs, and minimised
Sykes MH300i electric pumps at an iron ore mine in Western Australia
production losses.
The Direct-On-Line( DOL) and Soft Starter( SS) options allow the pump to operate cost effectively at 1,480 RPM with a 4-pole motor. The Variable Frequency Drive( VFD) allows the pump to operate at multiple speeds across the range of the curve from 30 Hz to 80 Hz.“ Whatever the need, we deliver customised and innovative solutions that meet and exceed your targets and expectations. We can provide you with additional electrical equipment, such as Soft Starters or VFDs, and other smart solutions to get the best performance from your pump. Pumps can be manufactured and engineered to suit your site’ s needs, including mounting on skids, trailers or pontoons, offering flexibility and accessibility to your pump for operation and maintenance.”
Finally, Sykes offers engineered solutions to convert diesel engine dewatering pumps into electric-motor-run solutions. If a VFD or Soft Starter is required to run the pump, this can be supplied.
Tsurumi’ s battery mining pump option
Water pumps on mining sites are usually powered by mains connections or generators with combustion engines. However, due to the increasing focus on emissions, noise protection and greater flexibility, mobile battery storage systems are now coming into focus as one alternative, especially as technical advances have been made in this area.
In a test conducted by Tsurumi, two typical units were used: the single-phase LB480 drainage pump and the three-phase
International Mining | JUNE 2026 47