What issues should be noted when slurry pumps are used to transport alkaline materials?

Material Selection

Stainless Steel: Slurry pumps made of stainless steel offer certain alkali resistance. 304 stainless steel maintains good stability in generally weak alkaline environments. 316 stainless steel has stronger corrosion resistance, particularly offering better resistance to alkaline solutions containing corrosive components such as chloride ions.

Alloy Materials: Alloy materials developed for corrosive conditions, such as acidic and alkaline environments, provide excellent corrosion resistance, including resistance to alkaline corrosion. These materials can operate stably in high-concentration, high-temperature alkaline environments.

Rubber: Certain rubber materials, such as fluororubber and EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer), exhibit good corrosion resistance to alkaline substances. Fluororubber offers excellent resistance to both acids and alkalis and is used in the chemical industry for transporting chemical slurries containing alkaline components. EPDM also has good alkali resistance, along with excellent elasticity and wear resistance, making it suitable for transporting alkaline wastewater containing solid particles.

Operational and Maintenance Considerations

Regular Inspections: Due to the corrosive nature of alkaline materials, regular inspections of all components of the slurry pump are necessary, especially key parts such as the pump body, impeller, and shaft seal. Check for signs of corrosion and wear, such as corrosion pits or wear marks. If any issues are found, take timely measures, such as replacing components or performing repairs.

Cleaning and Maintenance: After the pump is stopped, promptly flush the interior of the pump body with clean water or a suitable cleaning solution to remove residual alkaline materials and reduce corrosion. For pumps that are out of service for extended periods, proper maintenance is essential, such as injecting rust preventive oil or other protective agents into the pump to prevent rust and corrosion.

Flow and Pressure Control: Reasonably control the flow rate and pressure of the slurry pump to avoid excessive冲刷 (erosion) and wear caused by high flow rates or pressures. Additionally, ensure the pump operates within its designed working range to maintain its performance and service life.