As the sole distributor of US pumps manufacturer Wilden’s FIT pumps range in South Africa, dewatering specialist Letaba Group showcased the new range as well as its other advanced and Stallion series of double-diaphragm pumps from the US manufacturer at Electra Mining Africa 2016.

Letaba Industrial Pumps GM Ian Duke explains that the new FIT pumps range is an upgraded series of pumps, which has been designed with the same dimensions as the existing Wilden Original series.

“This new FIT pump, together with Wilden’s Pro–Flo Shift air valve technology, uses less air to achieve the same results, therefore saving on energy costs. Upgrades from the older series include better performance and efficiency,” he explains.

Duke asserts that the FIT pumps range also introduces a robust bolted design, which is stronger and eliminates possible containment issues. He adds that the original pumps are clamp-banded, whereas the FIT pump is bolted. This means it is easier to align during assembly, with less chance of leaks occurring from critical areas.

He further explains that, by matching the dimensions of the existing range, FIT pumps can eliminate the need to alter any existing pipework and fit in perfectly on the same footprint as the original clamped series.

He adds that some companies prefer this bolted design and now have the option of replacing their clamped series pumps with the FIT pumps when required.

Duke illustrates that some models of the FIT series have followed on from the larger 3' and 2' port size models. He adds that the company has not had the 1.5' model until now, and this will complete the range.

Moreover, he highlights that Wilden pumps excel in transferring difficult-to-pump fluids with a viscous, abrasive or corrosive nature. Owing to its design and being air-operated, the range is inherently safe to operate in explosive environments and eliminates all the costly electrical components needed when operating other electricity-driven pumps.

“Further, we also showcased the Almatec air-operated pumps at our stand at Electra Mining, which offers a different design with exceptional quality and containment for those viscous, abrasive or corrosive applications,” says Duke.

He notes that the company’s Wilden Stallion range, in particular, is well known in the mining industry. He adds that these are specifically configured for rough applications, and are strong and reliable.

The Stallion range of solids handling pumps provides miners with durability, portability and ease of maintenance. These pumps can handle large solids of up to 25 mm, and are equipped with collapsible handles for ease of handling.

Duke concludes that the Stallion range also has a shock absorbing base, which protects the inlet housings from unwanted damage in the harsh underground environment.