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In the world of mining and mineral processing, reliability and efficiency are non-negotiable. These operations often involve handling thick slurries, abrasive materials, corrosive fluids, and waste by-products—all of which can be harsh on conventional equipment. This is where the diaphragm pump proves its worth.

Also known as an air operated double diaphragm pump or AODD pump, this rugged pump type is widely used in mining sites across Australia and around the world. It plays a key role in keeping operations running smoothly, handling everything from mine water and chemical solutions to slurry and tailings.

In this article, we'll explore the most common uses of these versatile pumps in mining and mineral processing, explain why they're preferred in such tough conditions, and answer a few common questions about what a diaphragm pump is and how it works.

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What Is a Diaphragm Pump?

A diaphragm pump uses two flexible diaphragms that move back and forth to create suction and discharge. Instead of using electric motors, air diaphragm pumps rely on compressed air, which drives the diaphragms and moves the fluid.

Because there are no rotating parts in direct contact with the pumped fluid, diaphragm pumps are perfect for materials that are abrasive, corrosive, or contain solid particles. This is why they are so widely used in heavy-duty industries like mining.

Their design also allows for dry-run capability, self-priming, and safe operation in hazardous environments—crucial for mine sites where safety and adaptability are critical.

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Why Are Diaphragm Pumps Used in Mining?

Mining and mineral processing present unique pumping challenges. Fluids can be highly viscous, filled with solids, or chemically aggressive. Pumps must also operate under varying conditions and often in remote or difficult terrain.

This is where air operated diaphragm pumps stand out. Their combination of rugged performance, simple operation, and adaptability makes them ideal for demanding mining environments. Key advantages include:

• Handles abrasive and corrosive materials

• Moves thick slurries and solids-laden fluids

• Operates without electrical power

• Lightweight and portable for easy relocation

• Intrinsically safe and submersible where needed

• Runs dry without damage

• Simple to maintain and service

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With these strengths, diaphragm pumps have found their place in nearly every stage of the mining process. Let’s take a closer look at how they’re commonly used.

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1. Dewatering

Removing water from mine sites is critical for safety and efficiency—especially in underground operations and open pits. Diaphragm pump are widely used for dewatering, thanks to their ability to handle water containing solids, mud, and debris without clogging. Their self-priming and dry-run capability makes them highly dependable, even in unpredictable conditions. Whether managing groundwater or removing stormwater, these pumps help maintain safe, dry work areas.

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2. Waste Management and Transfer

Mining generates a significant amount of liquid and semi-solid waste, including slurries, sludge, and chemical by-products. Diaphragm pumps are designed to transfer these abrasive and viscous materials without damage or frequent maintenance. Their solid-handling capacity and simple, air-powered operation make them an excellent fit for moving waste within processing plants, to holding ponds, or into treatment systems—keeping operations clean and compliant.

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3. Fuel Handling and Transfer

Refuelling heavy equipment is a routine but essential task on any mine site. Diaphragm pump provide a safe and efficient solution for transferring fuels such as diesel and oils, especially in remote or hazardous environments. Because they operate without electricity and have no rotating parts, they offer intrinsically safe performance when dealing with flammable liquids. This makes them a reliable choice for mobile fuelling setups, bulk storage transfers, or equipment service bays.

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4. Filtration Processes

Before water is discharged or reused in processing, it must go through filtration systems such as filter presses to remove solid content. Diaphragm pumps are used to feed these systems with slurry, delivering a steady flow and consistent pressure. Their ability to handle thick fluids and fine particles without pulsation or interruption improves the overall efficiency and uptime of filtration processes, supporting better water recovery and waste separation.

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5. Precision Dosing and Metering

In mineral processing, precise chemical dosing is vital for processes like flotation, separation, and pH control. Diaphragm pumps excel at accurately metering chemicals such as flocculants, reagents, and neutralising agents. Their gentle, consistent pumping action ensures exact dosing without overshooting or degrading sensitive fluids. This leads to more controlled chemical usage, optimised results, and reduced operating costs.

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Conclusion

Air operated diaphragm pumps play a critical role in mining and mineral processing operations. Their ability to manage a wide range of fluids—including slurries, chemicals, wastewater, and fuels—makes them a dependable solution across key stages of production and maintenance.

With durable construction, low maintenance requirements, and safe, flexible operation, these pumps support more reliable performance and operational efficiency throughout mining facilities. They remain a practical choice for meeting the rigorous demands of modern industrial environments.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Question: What makes a diaphragm pump good for mining?

Answer: Its ability to handle solids, resist chemical attack, and run without electricity makes it ideal for tough mining conditions.

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Question: How does a diaphragm pump work in basic terms?

Answer: It uses air pressure to flex two diaphragms back and forth, creating a pumping motion that draws fluid in and pushes it out.

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Question: Can diaphragm pumps move thick slurries?

Answer: Yes, they’re designed to handle viscous and abrasive slurries without clogging or damage.

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Question: Are electric diaphragm pumps used in mining?

Answer: While electric diaphragm pumps exist, air operated models are more common in mining due to their safety and mobility.

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Question: What’s the difference between an air operated double diaphragm pump and other pump types?

Answer: Air operated double diaphragm pumps use compressed air instead of motors and have no rotating seals, making them better suited to handling solids and chemicals in harsh environments.

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