How to increase the abrasion resistance of rotor

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on methods to increase the abrasion resistance of a rotor used in progressive cavity pumps for kaolin slurry filtration. Participants explore material options and potential modifications to improve performance and longevity in a challenging operational environment.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Santhosh describes the current rotor setup, including its material (SS316) and the challenges faced due to abrasion after three months of operation.
  • One participant suggests using pressurized water to lubricate the seal as a potential solution.
  • Another participant argues that a change in rotor material is necessary, as SS316 may not provide sufficient wear resistance, questioning the hardness of the chromium coating.
  • A suggestion is made to consider a ceramic coating for improved abrasion resistance.
  • One participant references the use of similar equipment in the oil industry, suggesting that experiences with "mud pumps" might offer insights, while also noting the differences in slurry composition.
  • There is a proposal to explore alternative equipment options, such as inclined conveyors, to achieve the desired task.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the adequacy of the current rotor material and coating, with some advocating for a material change while others propose alternative solutions. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to enhance abrasion resistance.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not reached a consensus on the most effective material or method for increasing abrasion resistance, and there are unresolved questions about the performance of the existing chromium coating.

Santhosh KN
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For Kaolin slurry filter presing we are using progressive cavity pumps.After three months of operation we found that the pumping rate is reduced a lot.Upon investigation we found taht this is because of the abrasion. 150 micron Chromium coating done, still after three months ,this again failed.

The rotor is having 125mm diameter and is of 2.8m long. As the medium handled is Clay Slurry with low pH the MOC of the rotor is SS316. This rotor rotates inside a neoprene rubber stator while pumping the slurry. For the pump to develop a pressure of 10 bar the sealing between th rotor and stator is very important and the damage to the sealing area reduces the pump through put.

We are looking for a suitable method for increasing the abrasion resistance of the rotor along the sealing area.

Any suggestions?

Santhosh
 
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What about pressurised water to lubricate the seal?
 
If abrasion is really what your problem is, then you definitely need a rotor material change. 316 is not a very good choice for this. It sounds like the chromium coating was supposed to give you the wear resistance you needed, but it too failed. I don't see how you can get away with not changing rotor material to something with a higher hardness.

Did anyone inspect your rotors to make sure the chromium coating had the required hardness?
 
Maybe a ceramic coating?
 
This kind of equipment is used extensively in the oil field and is often referred to as a "mud pump" or "mud motor". It is used to deliver drilling fluid (aka "drilling mud") to the drill bit. Do not know the comparability of your kaolin slurry to the (typically bentonite) clay found in drilling mud - but you might look for a solution within the oil industry experience with this equipment. One thing you probably will not be able to replicate in your application is the oil industry's use of various additives to change the mud's properties.

Have you considered another kind of equipment to accomplish the task... such as an inclined conveyor?
 

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