Integrated Pump Technology, in collaboration with its local distributor IES, stepped in to provide a reliable dewatering solution at a major mining operation on Zambia’s Copperbelt.
Almost a year later, the 85kW Grindex Mega INOX stainless steel dewatering pump continues to operate successfully, transferring water from the tailings dam back to the process plant, says Alfred Kelsey, Sales Manager at Integrated Pump Technology.
“This was the first unit of its kind to be installed at the site and the customer was extremely pleased with its performance during the three month trial,” says Kelsey. “They valued the confidence we had in the pump, which allowed us to offer a 12 month warranty. Equally important was the fact that we could provide local support through our distribution partner, IES – not something all pump suppliers in the region can offer.”
Thanks to the strong partnership between Integrated Pump Technology and IES, strategic stockholding in Zambia ensured that the Grindex Mega INOX pump was available ex-stock and could be deployed without delay, he adds. The unit is tasked with pumping water at a rate of 60 litres per second at a head of approximately 80 metres.
Kelsey notes that the Copperbelt region hosts some of the wettest mines globally and with mining activity on the rise the demand for Grindex dewatering pumps is gaining solid momentum.
“In particular, our units in the power range of 10kW, 18kW, 37kW and 90kW are especially popular,” he explains. “These models offer a combination of high performance, robust design and long service life – making them ideal for demanding mining applications.”
He highlights that Grindex pumps are engineered for high head and high flow applications and are built with features that set them apart in tough conditions. These include durable stainless steel or cast iron construction, advanced motor protection and built-in air valves that allow the pumps to run dry without damage.
The pumps also incorporate smart cooling designs and heavy-duty mechanical seals to ensure reliability in highly abrasive and corrosive environments, such as open pit and underground dewatering and tailings management.
“The Mega INOX, for example, can handle aggressive water with high chloride content which is common in tailings dams,” says Kelsey. “It is equipped with a high efficiency motor and hydraulics to ensure minimal energy consumption while delivering high performance.”
Another advantage is the ease of serviceability. “Grindex pumps are designed for quick maintenance with minimal downtime and many components are interchangeable across models, which simplifies logistics for mines,” he adds.
Combined with the local technical expertise and readily available spares and units through IES in Zambia, customers are assured of fast turnaround times and minimal disruption to operations. “This holistic support structure is key to maintaining uptime in environments where every minute counts,” Kelsey concludes.
