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Progressive Cavity Pumps: A Multi-Talent for the Global Mining Industry

The mining and metals industry is at the heart of global development. From powering smartphones and agricultural equipment to enabling infrastructure and transportation, modern life depends on a steady supply of minerals. This demand is intensifying as the world transitions to clean energy, requiring vast quantities of copper, lithium, rare earths, and other critical minerals.

But meeting this demand comes with challenges. Mining companies must balance rising output with sustainability targets, stricter safety regulations, and volatile commodity markets. At the same time, they face mounting pressures from water scarcity, labor shortages, and the need to reduce environmental impact.

Among the technologies helping operators address these challenges, progressive cavity (PC) pumps stand out. They not only boost efficiency and reliability but also reduce downtime, energy use, and operating costs.


Expectations in Mining Equipment

Mining is one of the toughest industrial environments, demanding equipment that can withstand abrasive, corrosive, and highly variable conditions. Operators expect three things from pumps:

  • Performance – consistent throughput and product quality.

  • Cost-efficiency – reduced maintenance and downtime.

  • Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) – equipment that is safe to handle and compliant with strict safety standards.

By using the right pump materials, mining companies can extend equipment life, reduce waste, and support their broader commitment to responsible resource use.


Water Management: A Universal Challenge

Mine dewatering is critical for both open-pit and underground operations. Whether water enters naturally through groundwater or is added during processing, it must be managed effectively to keep sites safe, prevent flooding, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

Efficient dewatering systems depend on pumps that can handle variable flow rates and solids content — a capability where PC pumps excel.


Where Progressive Cavity Pumps Deliver Value

SEEPEX PC pumps are used across the global mining sector for a variety of demanding applications:

  • Flocculants – gentle pumping to preserve flocculants during thickening.

  • Thickener underflow & tailings – reliable transfer of highly abrasive slurries.

  • Reagent dosing – accurate metering of flotation chemicals.

  • Mine dewatering – high-pressure pumping for surface and underground sites.

  • Filter press feeding – smooth, low-pulsation flow improves separation efficiency.

  • Explosives emulsions – safe handling of viscous blasting materials.

  • Camp wastewater – dependable treatment for remote mining communities.


Energy and Cost Savings

Mining is energy-intensive, but pumps are often overlooked as a source of savings. SEEPEX PC pumps are designed to handle abrasive and corrosive media efficiently at low speeds, reducing wear and energy consumption.

Advantages include:

  • Lower installed power requirements.

  • No need for gland seal water.

  • Constant flow regardless of pressure or solids.

  • Flexible operation across the curve.

  • Lower lifecycle costs through reduced energy and water use.


Why SEEPEX?

With global engineering expertise and a strong service network, SEEPEX provides complete pumping solutions tailored for mining operators. Their technology ensures robust handling of slurries and corrosive media while protecting sensitive reagents such as flocculants. Easy maintenance features minimize downtime and risks to personnel, while integrated skid solutions with controls and safety systems provide end-to-end reliability.

By combining efficiency, safety, and durability, SEEPEX helps the mining sector lower costs, improve productivity, and operate more sustainably — meeting the demands of today while preparing for the resource challenges of tomorrow.

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