Industrial Centrifugal Pumps: Copper Mine, South Africa

13th December 2024

Industry: Mining
Location: South Africa
Application: Industrial Centrifugal Pumps (single stage centrifugal pump)
Products: 202 Ceramic Repair Fluid

The Challenge

At a copper mine in South Africa, industrial centrifugal pumps were experiencing severe abrasion due to handling process water containing trace elements of sulfuric acid and high levels of copper particulates. These conditions were causing significant wear to the single stage centrifugal pump, leading to the need for regular maintenance. The plant manager, specifically requested a solution that would last at least six months, due to the current wear rate of their process pumps.

The Solution

The industrial centrifugal pumps cast surfaces were grit blasted to Sa2.5, ISO 8504-1, SSPC SP-10 (NACE 2 Near White Metal) with a minimum 75-micron angular profile, ensuring the complete removal of corrosion, old coatings, and surface contaminants. This surface preparation step created an ideal profile for maximum coating adhesion on the single stage centrifugal pump.

Resimac 202 Ceramic Repair Fluid was applied in two brush applied coats, each with a nominal thickness of 300-350 microns. All internal components exposed to process water and abrasive particulates were thoroughly coated, ensuring full coverage in critical areas such as impeller surfaces, pump volutes, and casings.

Results & Benefits

• Effective protection for the industrial centrifugal pumps caused by sulfuric acid and copper particulates
• Withstand extreme erosive and abrasive conditions
• The single stage end suction pump repair exceeded the general manager’s expectations
• Durable and cost effective solution that reduced the need for frequent replacements
• The successful application led to the coating of additional pumps, further supporting the mine’s maintenance strategy
• Provided abrasion and corrosion resistance, offering long term protection against the severe operating conditions

Gallery

Categorised in: News, Project Profiles