A potential catastrophe was recently averted at a Lesotho mine when a constant flow of water into the pit area required immediate action. The water needed to be urgently and reliably pumped out and time was of the essence. A rapid dewatering solution was delivered and normal mining operations could resume.

A Sykes Xtra High Head pump set was used, pumping into a 200 mm high-density polyethylene line with a head of 127 m to a holding dam.

The pump has automatic priming and solids handling capacity, designed for efficient dewatering.  The unit’s shaft stiffness means that the large pressures and heads associated with such performances do not compromise seal integrity through shaft flexing.

All models are able to operate unattended at high discharge heads. The pumps can be primed with long suction hoses and can manage suction lifts of up to 9 m. In addition, the units can run dry for extended periods due to the oil bath mechanical seal assembly.

The pumps can also operate in ‘snore’ condition, which accommodates fluctuating suction levels. In these conditions, the pump will snore until the liquid is available for the pump to fully re-prime itself automatically.

Integrated Pump Rental secured the dewatering contract and delivered and commissioned the Sykes XH150 unit to the site 24 hours after receiving the call from the customer.