Wear Evaluation Results from a Practical Trial of Laser-Coated Pump Parts in the Mineral Processing Industry

Abstract

Slurry pumps in the mineral processing industry are parts that erode very quickly. Erosion is predominantly caused by abrasion from fine particles of the ores. Because of this, the erosion process takes place on impeller blades and cover plates that directly contact the slurry. This paper evaluates the wear of laser-coated pump parts in the mineral processing industry. Building upon previous research conducted by the authors, we aimed to determine the best laser coating powder system to extend the useful life of specific laser-coated pump parts. Four blades of a slurry pump impeller were each treated with a different laser powder coating, then assessed for wear after 19 days of operation. During this real-life trial, each powder system performed differently. The laser coatings were worn away in two general directions. The first direction was along with the blade pattern, and the second wear direction was from the center of the impeller to the direct blade surface. Partial surface cladding led the material to wear away faster than complete surface cladding due to perpendicular force. Based on these results, in order to use material hardness and wear resistance to higher efficiency, we need to cover all surfaces with different thicknesses depending on the wear rate of the part. This study also showed that Powder System 2 was the most suitable coating material for this type of slurry pump.