Tough pumps solve sand resin mix dispensing problem 06 March 2012

Hydra-Cell high pressure pumps have solved hitherto intractable problems on a dosing machine used to dispense a sand-resin mix into moulds.

The unnamed ceramic shower trays manufacturer had been using conventional metering pumps, but the highly abrasive substance – viscosity between 10,000 to 15,000 cps and with suspended solids content of 80% – was causing then to fail.

Valves and diaphragms were simply becoming clogged and wearing out, due to the effects of the highly abrasive mixture.

The new pump is delivering the sand and resin mixture at flow rates of between 6 to 7 lit/min and discharge pressures of 5—6bar.

Michael Smith Engineers provided a Hydra-Cell G25 pump for its slow running, medium pressure pumping capability and its abrasion resistance, due to its cast iron pump head, Buna diaphragms with 316 stainless steel valves and seats.

To ensure the necessary flow for this application, the feed tank was also installed two metres above the pump and fitted with a large diameter inlet pipe to ensure a good feed.

Despite nine months of near continual operation, the Hydra-Cell pumps have required no maintenance. In the future, to extend the mean time between servicing even further, harder wearing ceramic valves and seats will be fitted, instead of the existing stainless steel parts.

Brian Tinham

Related Companies
Michael Smith Engineers Ltd

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