Field Performance of Inlet Liner for Centrifugal Slurry Pump Manufactured by NR/PBR Nanocomposite

Abstract

Centrifugal slurry pumps are being used in many mineral companies to transport mineral materials. These materials are mainly abrasive and the liner of these pumps are eroded during their working life. Zinc oxide (ZnO) are usually used for enforcing rubber material but, the ZnO is harmful to the environment. Nano ZnO (n-ZnO) particles seem to purvey higher activity. In this work, the inlet liner of a centrifugal slurry pump was fabricated with n-ZnO that decreases environmental concerns and improves its wear life. The composite of inlet liner is made of Natural rubber (NR) and Polybutadiene rubber (PBR). For determining the optimal dosage of n-ZnO within the composite, mechanical properties for rubber compounds comprising 1-2 unit(s) n-ZnO, were investigated comparing to those of the compound with 5 units conventional ZnO (c-ZnO). It was found that optimal amount of n-ZnO was 1 unit which it was enough to give equivalent or better mechanical properties compared to one containing a higher amount of, namely 5 units, c-ZnO in the composite. In addition, field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) photo showed that n-ZnO particles were homogeneously dispersed in the composite. Finally, two inlet liners were manufactured, one of them was with 1 unit of n-ZnO (n-liner) and the other one with 5 units of c-ZnO (c-liner). These two liners were used in service in a plant. The field study showed that the life of n-liner was 1/3 unit more than the life of c-liner and n-liner face has been worn less than c-liner one.