Which pump type is most commonly used for pumping activated carbon slurry?

• A. Diaphragm Pump
• B. Centrifugal Pump
• C. Piston Pump
• D. Gear Pump

Answer: (A)

Handling slurries with abrasive solids like activated carbon requires a pump that can tolerate solids, resist wear, and maintain reliable suction. A diaphragm pump fits this need because it is a positive-displacement design where the fluid is moved by a flexible diaphragm. This configuration keeps the pumping mechanism separate from the slurry, so the wetted parts that wear (the diaphragm and check valves) are replaceable and can withstand abrasive carbon particles. Diaphragm pumps handle high solids content, can run dry or run at varying viscosities, and are often air- or hydraulically driven for robust, self-priming operation in challenging environments.

Centrifugal pumps, by contrast, rely on impellers to impart energy to the fluid and tend to wear quickly when solids are present; they are more prone to clogging and require pretreatment or lower solids content. Piston pumps can handle slurries but have more complex seals and higher wear with abrasive particles. Gear pumps handle viscous liquids but are limited in passing solids and can suffer rapid wear when faced with abrasive carbon particles.

So, the diaphragm pump’s combination of solid handling, abrasion resistance, self-priming capability, and ease of maintenance makes it the typical choice for activated carbon slurry.