Even where a plant is processing only dry solids, the effect of slurry on wear of wear on equipment is even greater, and the choice of liner is crucial to achieving the maximum possible equipment life.
Why Slurry Cuts So Effectively
The liquid in a slurry carries the abrasive particles to the surface of the wear part. The particles then slide along the surface, and with every contact they are cutting into the surface material. This type of wear is called two-body abrasion and is far worse than dry abrasion. The more the slurry is in motion, the worse the wear will be.
Alumina Ceramic Resists Both Wear and Adhesion
Ceramic wear protection, particularly made from alumina, is ideal for fighting wear and adhesion of slurries. Because of the high hardness of alumina (approximately 9 on the Mohs scale) it is not easily worn by sharp particles, and because of the low surface energy, the slurry will not stick to the ceramic tiles. Other materials will easily glaze or wear off quickly when confronted with such slurry.
Joint Fit Prevents Undercutting
Slurry finds its way into the smallest gap between two tiles. Thus it is very important that the joint fit is tight and that the edges of the tiles have been properly bedded. If the slurry is able to flow into the gap under the tiles it will quickly start to undercut the surface of the tiles.
Match Tile Placement to Flow Angle and Velocity
The way you design your wear protection to your pipes and equipment is based on the angle and velocity of the slurry flow. The tile thickness and the area that the tiles cover off, needs to be designed around the actual flow in your pipes or equipment. This will enable you to get the longest possible life from the wear protection.
If you want Ceramic Wear Protection, https://www.kingfisher-industrial.com/wear-protection/ceramics/ is a good place to start.
When Ceramic Beats Rubber or Polyurethane
Rubber and polyurethane wear protection is ideally suited for dealing with low velocity, rounded abrasive particles. However, sharp angular particles are easily cut by these materials. At higher temperatures and velocities, ceramic wear protection will continue to maintain its form and wear resistance whereas softer materials such as rubber and polyurethane will degrade.
Specifying the correct material for the correct application will improve liner life.