Corrosion Resistant Peristaltic Pumps for Chemical Dosing and Sludge Transfer at Molybdenum Production Facility

Enquiry from a Molybdenum Manufacturer for Dosing Calcium Hydroxide and Sulfuric Acid

Molybdenum is a raw material used in the electronics, steel, and chemical industries. It is commonly utilised in the production of smart phones and to make stainless steel more chemically resistant. We were approached by a company that manufactures various grades of molybdenum, they required pumps for the dosing of calcium hydroxide, 30% concentration sulfuric acid and for the transfer of precipitation sludge for several of their processes.

The ideal solution for the customer was to have one model of pump suitable for all processes and fluids, this was certainly a challenge as all materials must be chemically resistant to all the fluids being transferred, but one we are all too familiar with and had great success with in the past. We knew that a peristaltic hose pump was the perfect solution for this customer as it is one of the most versatile and configurable units available.

Peristaltic Pumps as the Ideal Solution for Chemical and Sludge Applications

Chemical and sludge applications are ideal for peristaltic pumps as there is only one internal part that encounters the fluid, the hose, and this can be manufactured in various grades of rubber to ensure corrosion resistance. The seal-less design eliminates the possibility of fluid leaking and entering the motor, the enclosed casing further ensures that if the hose does burst, no liquid will escape into the external environment.

As there is only one main wearing part, the internal hose, maintenance is a cost effective and simple process for engineers on site. Hose pumps are positive displacement and self-priming by nature and the absence of a mechanical seal allows the pump to run dry indefinitely without fear of damage and premature wear.

As an extra, we coated the casing with Halar (ECTFE), this coating protects the casing from chemical attack in the event of a hose leakage, providing further protection and assurance for all staff at the facility. Polypropylene flanges were installed as per the customer’s requirements, there are options for BSP, NPT or Tri-clamp connections in PVC or stainless steel if required.

Varying the Flow Rate with an External Variable Frequency Drive

The customer will vary the flow rate using an external variable frequency drive to achieve lower flow rates for dosing of the acids/alkalis and increase the speed for higher flow rates when transferring the sludge. We offered optional extras of an integrated variable speed drive and hose leakage sensor, but these were not required. The leakage sensor sends a signal to an external control panel and shuts off the pump in the event the hose bursts, the fluid is then contained in the casing until maintenance is performed. Other configurable options for our peristaltic pumps include Atex motors for non-safe areas, mobile trolleys for portability around site, food grade versions, PTC sensors and forced air cooling for the motor.

See the below description of the peristaltic pumps that were delivered: