Chapter 3.

Mine Pumps
ROBERTW. LAWSON

INTRODUCTION
Prior to 1705, underground mining was limited to
mineral deposits located above or a very small distance
below the water table. The development of the steam-
driven mining pump was motivated by the need to ex-
tract minerals from deposits considerably lower than
the water table. Today, the majority of mine pumps are
driven by electric motors, although some small utility
pumps are driven by compressed air.
Of the numerous types of pumps that might be
applied to mine service, the two types used most fre-
quently underground are the centrifugal and plunger
pumps. Each of these types has its proper application.
In most instances, plunger pumps are best for handling
low water volumes against high heads, while centrifugal
pumps effectively handle either low or high water vol-
umes against low heads or high water volumes against
high heads.
This chapter describes pumps applied to under-
- - -

ground mine service, where the mine service consists of
mine drainage (removing mine water as it accumulates),
mine dewatering (removing water from a flooded mine),
and pumping for special applications such as hydraulic
mining and hydraulic hoisting.
CENTRIFUGAL AND PLUNGER PUMPS
Modern mine pumps are classified as either centrif-
ugal (kinetic) or plunger (positive-displacement)
pumps. The following paragraphs describe each of these
classifications.
Centrifugal Pumps
Centrifugal pumps may be grouped into various
types, depending upon their various features:
Number of Stages: In a single-stage pump, the total
head is developed by one impeller, while a multi-
stage pump utilizes two or more impellers acting in one
casing to develop the total head. Fig. 1 shows a cuta-
way view of a single-stage horizontal split-case double-
Fig. 1. Cutaway view of a single-stage horizontal split-
case double-section centrifugal pump (courtesy of Inger-
soll-Rand Co.).
section centrifugal pump. Fig. 2 shows a cutaway view
of a six-stage medium-pressure split-case diffuser-type
centrifugal pump.
Type of Casing: A volute pump has a casing in the
form of a spiral or volute. A circular-casing pump
has a casing of constant cross section concentric with
the impeller. A diffuser pump is equipped with a diffuser
that converts velocity head to pressure head.
Shaft Position: A horizontal pump normally has
the shaft in a horizontal position, while a vertical pump
normally has the shaft in a vertical position. Fig. 3 illus-
trates a vertical turbine-type slurry pump.
Suction: A single-suction pump equips the first stage
with a single-suction impeller, with fluid entering the
impeller on only one side. A double-suction pump equips

Fig. 2. Cutaway view of a medium-pressure split-case six-stage diffusor-type centrifugal pump (courtesy of Ingersoll-
Rand Co.).
1336
 ANCILLARY EQUIPMENT
Fig. 7. Cross section of a Mitsubishi-MarsTM
plunger-type slurry-pump system (courtesy of Mitsubishi Co.).
gravity of the mine water, H is the total dynamic head
in feet, E, is the efficiency of the pump, and E , is the
efficiency of the motor.
Suction Sump: The suction sump serves two im-
portant functions. First, the suction sump provides stor-
age capacity in the event of a power outage or a
mechanical failure of the pumping equipment. Many
mines have established definite minimum storage limits.
For example, Butte copper mines require that no pump
installation have less than 4 hr storage of water inflow
in the sump. In other mines, 45 to 90 min of storage
is considered adequate, with local conditions dictating
the storage capacity. Furthermore, the capacity of the
storage sump should be adequate to accommodate any
sudden inrush of water.
The second function of the suction sump is to pro-
vide adequate residence time for the suspended solids to
settle, and the sump must be designed to allow removal
of the residue. Many arrangements are in use, and Fig.
8 illustrates one possible arrangement.
The horizontal sump is the most prevalent, and it
requires minimum shaft depth. It accommodates a
horizontally split pump located in a dry well with
flooded suction. The vertical sump, commonly used in
South Africa, permits the residue to be drained by
gravity from the bottom of the sump directly into a
mud skip used to hoist the residue to the surface. How-
ever, a vertical sump. requires a greater shaft depth
than does a horizontal sump. It is well suited to the
use of a vertical mine pump.
To determine the proper residency time in the sump,
a number of mine-water samples should be placed in a
laboratory graduate where the settling can be observed
and timed. As a general approximation, a sump should
have approximately 0.09 m2 (1.0 sq ft) of surface area
for each 3.79 L (1.0 gal) pumped. This calculates to a
settling rate of 0.68 mm/s (1.6 ipm). In designing
either a vertical or a horizontal sump, an effort normally
is made to direct the incoming water toward the bottom
of the sump, taking the effluent from the top. The up-
ward rate of water flow should be less than the measured
settling rate. In a horizontal sump, submerged weirs
improve the effectiveness of solids removal, but such
weirs should be designed so they do not hamper clean-
ing the residue from the bottom of the sump.
The cost of providing adequate sump capacity is
recovered many times over through reduced pump main-
tenance. The importance of removing abrasive solids
from the mine water increases as the head against which
the pump operates increases.
Mine-Pump Motors: Modern mine-pump motors
are predominantly a-c induction motors. The type of
motor enclosure is dictated by the conditions prevailing
at the pump location. High-voltage current for major
pump installations is transmitted by cables down the
shaft or through boreholes and is transformed adjacent
to the pump station to meet the requirements of the
pump motor. The pump-motor voltage is selected ac-
cording to economic considerations, including the cost
of the transforming equipment, the motor-control equip-
ment, and the motors.
Small utility pumps of approximately 7.6 L / s (120
gpm) and 45.7 m (150 ft) total head may operate on
689 kPa (100 psi) of compressed air, consuming ap-
proximately 0.019 m3/s per kW (30 cfm per hp).
Ventilation: Ventilation is an important considera-
tion for any underground pump installation. Some mine
waters release noxious gases that must be diluted and
exhausted from the mine by means of adequate ventila-
tion. More frequently, ventilation must be provided to
remove the heat emitted by the pump motors and trans-
formers. The total electrical energy supplied to the
pump motors less the energy required to lift the water
against the head is converted to heat; this may be cal-
culated from the equation:
E = (56.92 X P ) -(0.011 X F X L,)
where E is the heat in British thermal units per minute,
P is the power in kilowatts, F is the water flow rate in
gallons .per minute, and L, is the static lift in feet.
 UNDERGROUND MINING METHODS HANDBOOK
Fig. 8. Diagram of a horizontal sump showing details of the settler section (courtesy of H.L. Monroe).
The heat must be dissipated by either ventilation air
or transferring the heat to the mine water pumped to
the surface. One method of transferring the motor heat
to the mine water is to enclose the pump motor so that
the air circulated over the rotor and stator is in a closed
system. This air then passes over a water-cooled heat
exchanger before being recirculated through the motor,
and the warmed water from the heat exchanger is
dumped into the pump suction and transported to the
surface.
Materials of Construction: The materials of con-
struction are critical to the success of a pumping in-
stallation. The "wetted parts" in contact with the
pumped liquid must be constructed of materials that
resist corrosion and abrasion. For mine water with a
neutral pH, a regular fitted pump with a cast-iron casing
and a bronze impeller, wearing rings, and shaft sleeve
is satisfactory. For slightly acid mine water, an all-bronze
pump, sometimes called "admiralty metal," is the best
construction. As the corrosive nature of the pumped
water increases, it may become necessary to use chrome-
nickel alloy. The pump manufacturer should be con-
sulted for recommendations; the information that should
be supplied to the pump manufacturer for proper selec-
tion of the pump materials includes: (1 ) the liquid to be
pumped; (2) the principal corrosives; (3) the pH and
specific gravity of the mine water; (4) the undissolved
impurities and other constituents, including the specific
gravity of the solids, the percentage of solids in the liquid
by weight, and the particle size and distribution; (5) de-
tails of the expected pump service; (6) the materials
used for pipelines; and (7) any previous experience with
materials of construction.
T o accurately assess the performance of various
materials, the pump manufacturer may request a sample
of the mine water. When the mine water is corrosive
and circumstances permit, the most accurate method of
evaluating alloys is to place weighed "tabs" of likely
alloys in a moving stream of mine water. At intervals,
the weight loss is determined for each sample alloy.
When the mine water presents a serious operating
problem, the most practical solution may be to treat the
water in the sump before it is pumped. Such treatment
could involve neutralizing the liquid with lime or some
other additive or increasing the acidity with sulfuric acid
to discourage the deposition of ocher in the pump
columns. The economics of such treatment procedures
must be analyzed for each individual installation.
It has been observed that pump maintenance caused
by abrasive particles in the mine water has increased
markedly when a mine has been converted from rail
haulage to rubber-tire haulage. This is attributed to the
rubber-tired vehicles constantly agitating the drainage
water in the haulageways. If rubber-tired haulage is
used, extra capacity for settling the solids should be
provided in the sumps and a higher pump-maintenance
cost anticipated.
Bid Form: The use of a bid form is suggested when
requesting quotations from various pump manufacturers.
Table 1 lists the items that should be included on such
a form. The portion of the form listing the design con-
ditions should be completed by the mine engineer and
 ANCILLARY EQUIPMENT

Table 1. Suggested Items for a Bid Form

Project: Date:
Purchaser: Ref. No.:
Address:

Dealgn Condltlona
Quantity
Service
Liquid
Temperature, "C ("F)
Capacity, Us (gpm)
Max Discharge Pressure, kPa (psi)
Max Suction Pressure, kPa (psi)
Differential Pressure, kPa (psi)
Specific Gravity
Total Head, m (ft)
Viscosity or Slurry Density
pH Value
Performance
Pump Selection
Speed, radls (rpm)
Efficiency at Design
Power, DesignIMax, kW (bhp)
NPSH, AvailableIRequired, m (ft)
Performance Curve
Construction
Packing or Seal
Gland Type
Piping Seal
Flange Rating, SuctionIDischarge
BearingdLubrication
Trico Oilers
Coupling
Coupling Guard
Bedplate
Gage TapdVentslDrains -1 -1 - -1-1- -1-1-
Rotation (Viewed from Coupling End) - CW CCW CW CCW CW -CCW
Materlala
Casing
Impeller
Shaft
Shaft Sleeve
Wearing Rings, ImpellerICasing
Drlver
TypeIFramelManufacturer -1-1-
Power, kW Iradls (hplrpm) I I I
Rotation (Viewed from Opposite Coupling) -CW -CCW CW -CCW -CW CCW
Furnished ByIManufactured By --I
Conditions
Prlclng
Shipping Weight, PumpIDriver, kg (Ib)
Pump Shipment, weeks
Net Pump Price, Each

the balance of the form should be completed by the
vendor. The use of such a form facilitates comparing
bids received from various manufacturers, and it assists
the purchaser in making sure that the comparison is
between equipment of comparable construction and per-
formance. Overall, the use of such a form helps elimi-
nate misunderstandings.
Pump Pefiormance Curves: Pump performance
curves are the most convenient method of indicating the
operating characteristics of a centrifugal pump. Fig. 9
illustrates the pump performance curve for a typical
two-stage single-suction centrifugal pump.
If the system curve of the mine-pump installation is
plotted with the same ordinate and abscissa scales as
used for the pump performance curve, the two curves
may be superimposed as shown in Fig. 10. The system
curve consists of the static head plus the friction head.
The point at which the system curve crosses the head-
capacity curve is the operating point for the installation.
As an example, assume that a two-stage single-
suction pump is driven by a 56-kW (75-hp) electric
motor at 372 rad/s (3550 rpm). The pump is fitted
with a 241-mm (9.5-in.) diam first-stage impeller and
a 216-mm (8.5-in.) second-stage impeller. The static
head on the pump is 168 m (550 ft), and pumping is
into a 102-mm (4.0-in.) standard-weight steel pipe. The
pipe length is a total of 274 m (900 ft), including
equivalent lengths for fittings. Fig. 10 shows that the
operating point is at 15.8 L/s (250 gpm), with 183 m
(600 ft) of head [I68 m (550 f t ) of static head plus 15
1342 UNDERGROUND MINING METHODS HANDBOOK

24 24

1000 20 1000 20
+
W +
W IJ.
C

IJ. 800 16 800 I6 1

Z Z (0
Z
9 600 12 9 600 12
I I
24 0 0
,:
8 400 8
+
+
0
+
0
+ 9
200 I00 200 I00
75 75
50 50 7
25 25 $
0 40 80 120 160 200 240 280 320 360 400 0 40 80 120 160 2 0 0 2 4 0 2 8 0 320 360 400
GALLONS PER MINUTE GALLONS PER MINUTE

Fig. 9. Pump-performance curve for a typical two-stage Fig. 10. Pump-performance curve with a super-imposed
single-suction centrifugal pump. Metric equivalents: ft X system curve. Metric equivalents: ft X 0.3048= m;
0.3048= m; in. X 25.4= mm; gpm X 0.063 090 2 = in. X 25.4= mm; gpm x 0.063 090 2 = L/s; bhp x
L/s; bhp X 0.745699 9 = kW. 0.745699 9 = kW.

m (50 ft) of friction head]. The pump efficiency is 63%
and the power is 45.5 kW (61 bhp). The pump requires
a minimum of 4.0 m (13 ft) net positive suction head
(NPSH) .
For mine drainage or dewatering, a pump should
have a head vs. capacity curve that rises constantly to
shutoff. If this curve has a "hump," the pump may surge
under certain operating conditions. Since the total dy-
namic head of a mine-drainage system is fairly constant,
a reasonably flat curve is desirable. As water accumu-
lates in the pump-section sump, the capacity handled by
the pump increases because the suction head increases.
That reduces the total dynamic head.
For a mine-dewatering pump, where the total dy-
namic head increases as the water in the mine recedes, a
steep head vs. capacity curve is desirable. As the head
increases, the capacity does not decrease significantly.
In selecting a pump, it is important to pick one with
a characteristic curve that permits the anticipated oper-
ating-condition point to be close to the maximum pump
efficiency. That is for reasons of both mechanical per-
formance and power economy. Continuously operating
a pump at an extreme above or below the point of maxi-
mum efficiency may cause unbalanced dynamic forces
that can result in excessive flexing of the pump shaft,
an overload on the pump bearings, and separation cavi-
tation damage in the impellers.
The performance of a centrifugal pump with a given
impeller design may be altered by changing the periph-
eral or tip speed of the impeller: (1) the capacity
varies in direct relationship to the peripheral speed, (2)
the head varies in direct relationship to the square of the
peripheral speed, (3) the power varies in direct rela-
tionship to the cube of the peripheral speed, and (4) the
efficiency remains constant for small changes in the
peripheral speed. The peripheral speed may be changed
by altering the diameter of the impeller or the rpm of
the pump.
However, there are some limitations. Only a radial-
flow centrifugal pump impeller can be altered, and too
great a change alters the characteristics so that the per-
formance does not conform to the relations stated. The
impeller should not be cut so small that the vanes do
not overlap. Otherwise, the performance may become
unstable. Too large an impeller in a casing interferes
with the flow at the cutwater and reduces the overall
efficiency of the pump.
Net Positive Suction Head (NPSH): The NPSH is
the absolute pressure in meters (feet) above the vapor
pressure of the liquid being pumped. The NPSH is
measured at the pump suction flange on a gage mounted
at the centerline of the pump. The available NPSH is
the sum of the suction gage reading and the atmospheric
pressure minus the vapor pressure. In equation form,
this is expressed as:
NPSH = 2.3 1 (Pa + P, - vp - fs)
where NPSH is the net positive suction head in feet, Pa
is the atmospheric (barometric) pressure in pounds per
square inch, P, is the suction pressure in pounds per
square inch at the pump suction nozzle corrected to the
pump's horizontal centerline (if this is a suction lift,
this is a negative value), vp is the vapor pressure in
pounds per square inch, and fs is the friction loss in the
suction piping in pounds per square inch. The 2.31
value is a constant to convert pounds per square inch to
feet of water. The same relationship may be applied
to values using metric units.
At sea level, the theoretical maximum suction lift of
a pump is 10.4 m (34 ft) and indicates the distance
from the surface of the water to the centerline of the
pump. In practice, a suction lift of 6.1 m (20 ft)
should not be exceeded. At altitudes above sea level,
the suction lift should be reduced to correspond to the
reduction in atmospheric (barometric) pressure. Most
pump performance curves indicate the NPSH required
by the pump. The available NPSH calculated from
the equation always must be equal to or greater than
the required NPSH.
Mine-Pump Cost
After reliability, the cost of the mine pump is the
most important consideration in the selection process.
The cost considered should be the total cost for the
entire life of the pump. This total cost includes the
purchase price, freight, installation costs, power costs,
and maintenance costs. Over the life of the pump, the
purchase price is only a small increment of the total
 ANCILLARY EQUIPMENT
cost, and the costs for power and maintenance should
be evaluated carefully.
As already indicated, the reliability of the pump
installation probably is the most important considera-
tion. If the mine is flooded, loss of production plus all
of the costs related to reopening the mine far exceed
the cost of the pumping equipment. In critical locations,
standby equipment must be considered. For cost cal-
culations, a ten-year life for the pump and accessories
is an acceptable estimation. That "life" frequently is
used when calculating equipment depreciation.
First Cost: The first cost is the purchase price of
the equipment. This cost may be obtained from the
equipment supplier. In recent years, prices have been
fluctuating so widely that it is hazardous to place any
faith in cost curves for equipment.
Installation Cost: Because of many variables, the
installation cost cannot be estimated here with any
degree of accuracy. Underground, there normally is
rock in place to provide a base on which to pour a thin
slab of concrete where the pump bedplate is anchored.
The cost of such a foundation is nominal. The principal
costs of installing an underground pump involve exca-
vating the pump room, building the pump sump, install-
ing the power lines and shaft column, and conveying
power to the pump motors.
Power Cost: The cost of power is becoming increas-
ingly important and the emphasis on pump and motor
efficiency is growing. The cost of power may be cal-
culated from the horsepower of the pump, the unit cost
of power, and the number of hours the pump actually
operates. The formulae are:
where C, is the power cost in dollars, Ckw,, is the cost
per kilowatt-hour in dollars, P,, is the power consump-
tion in kilowatts, T , is the pump-operation time in
hours, Pbh, is the brake horsepower of the pump motor,
and Em is the efficiency of the pump motor.
The utility company selling power to the mine should
be contacted to obtain the charge per kilowatt-hour and
an estimate of the increase in power rates over the next
ten years.
Maintenance Cost: Assuming the pump is handling
clean cold water, the maintenance cost may be estimated
at $4/kW ($3 per hp) per year. Abrasive or corrosive
materials in the mine water can increase this estimate
considerably.
Installation
When properly selected, installed, and maintained,
centrifugal pumps operate satisfactorily for a long
period of time.
Location: The pump should be located so that the
suction pipe can be short and direct with a minimum
of fittings. If possible, the pump suction should have a
positive head; Fig. 11 illustrates a piping arrangement
with a positive head on the suction. Adequate space
must be provided to inspect, remove, and repair units,
and provisions should be made for lifting devices needed
to handle heavy pieces such as the complete pump or
the complete motor. Frequently, it is desirable to allow
adequate space in the pump room for the installation
of additional pumps at some future date.
GATE VALVE-, PET COCK \ /GATE VALVE
Fig. 11. Typical piping arrangement with a positive head
on the suction.
Foundation: The foundation should form a rigid
support for the pump's bedplate and should absorb
mechanical vibration. A foundation must not be located
on a fault or rock fracture that might move or shift and
disturb the pump alignment.
The most satisfactory foundations are constructed
of reinforced concrete. Elevation drawings obtained
from the pump manufacturer identify the locations for
the anchor bolts, the size of the bolts, and the dimensions
for required grouting. In installing the foundation bolts,
the threaded bolt length above the rough surface of the
concrete should be somewhat longer than specified;
any unused excess can be cut off later. When applying
grout, a rough finish on the top of the concrete founda-
tion is desirable. Fig. 12 illustrates a typical template
for hanging foundation bolts while pouring the founda-
tion. Fig. 13 illustrates the typical arrangement of the
foundation bolt within the foundation.
Bedplate Leveling: The procedure to level the bed-
plate should include:
1 ) Disconnect the flexible coupling between the
pump and the motor.
2 ) Prepare iron wedges or shims 102 to 152 mm ( 4
to 6 in.) long and 51 to 76 mm (2 to 3 in.) wide to go
on each side of all foundation bolts. The wedges or shims
should be thick enough to allow 19 to 38 mm (0.75 to
1.5 in.) of grout to be placed under the edge of the
bedplate. Fig. 14 illustrates the method of placing the
wedges or shims with a pinch bar.
3 ) Level the bedplate using a 229-mm (9-in.)
machinist's level on the machined surface and snug
down the foundation bolts. When the bolts have been
tightened, recheck the level.
Alignment: It is extremely important that the pump
and motor be aligned properly. A flexible coupling is
not a universal joint. There will be some vertical ex-
pansion when the pump is running under normal condi-
allow bolts to project for make this distance
grouting under bed plate equal to lug on bed plate
Fig. 12. Typical template for hanging foundation bolts
while pouring a foundation for a pump.
 1344 UNDERGROUND MINING METHODS HANDBOOK

allow ample threaded

bolt length above
rough concrete
rough finish
stuff wastearound
bolt while pouring

pipe sleeve to be
three times diameter
' -. of anchor bolt

and pipe sleeve to

.. " 0 6 .
C . . .. .
Fig. 13. Cross section of a concrete foundation showing
the arrangement of a foundation bolt.

tions; the vertical difference between the pump and

motor should be measured when the equipment is cold,
and this difference should be recorded on a tag attached
to the coupling. Generally, pumping a cold or cool liquid
allows the motor to "grow" more than the pump; when
the pump and motor both are cold, the motor coupling
should be 0.13 to 0.20 mm (0.005 to 0.008 in.) lower
than the pump-half coupling. Fig. 15 illustrates the
steps necessary to align the coupling, and the alignment
must be within 0.08 mm (0.003 in.) when the equipment
is operating at normal temperature. The procedural steps
shown in Fig. 15 are:
1 ) Measure the vertical angular misalignment; the
coupling faces must be parallel to within 0.08 mm
(0.003 in.).
2 ) Measure the horizontal angular misalignment;
the coupling faces must be parallel to within 0.08 mm
(0.003 in.).
3 ) Measure the vertical alignment; the coupling
faces must be parallel to within 0.08 mm (0.003 in.).
4 ) Measure the horizontal alignment.

Fig. 15. Method of aligning the motor-to-pump coupling.

Grouting: Grouting is used to distribute the pump

load uniformly over the foundation. Fig. 16 illustrates
the method of placing the grout, and the procedure is:
1 ) Build a wood dam around the foundation as
shown in Fig. 16. Since the leveling wedges may be
removed after grouting, the locations of the wedges
,. .
should be marked before pouring the grout.
2) Prepare the grout mixture. A good mixture
Fig. 14. Method of leveling a bedplate using wedges or consists of one part cement to two pads clean sharp
shims and a pinch bar. sand. Enough water should be added so that the mixture
 ANCl LLARY EQU l PMENT

GATE CHECh
ULM VALVE
CENTRCl REEKER

ffi RADIUS ELBOW

STRAINER

ECCENTRC SUCTION PPC SLOPES

NWARD f ROM PU*P

RADIUS ELBOW

CORRECT
Fig. 16. Cross section of foundation grouting, showing the
position of the wood dam used when pouring grout.

flows evenly and is approximately the consistency of

heavy cream; too much water allows the cement to
separate out of the mixture.
3) Pour the grout to fill the area under the bedplate
completely. Holes in the bedplate allow air to escape
and serve as inspection ports.
4) After the grout has hardened completely, remove
the wood dam and the leveling wedges. Use additional
grout to fill the holes left by removing the wedges.
5) Pull down the foundation bolts, recheck the
pump level, and recheck the pump and motor align-
ment.
Many grouting materials are available, but only
some of them are usable in this application. The pro-
posed use of any new material always should be checked
with someone who has used it and whose opinions are
reliable. Do not connect any piping until the grout has
hardened thoroughly and the foundation bolts have been
pulled down.
Pump Column: The pump column should be of a
diameter sufficient for the water velocity to approximate
4.6 m/s (15 fps). Too small a diameter increases the
power consumption, while too large a diameter can re-
sult in "water hammer" problems. A check valve and a
gate valve should be installed in the discharge pipe; the
check valve should be between the gate valve and the Fig. 17. Correct and incorrect methods of installing
pump discharge flange. The check valve protects the suction and discharge pipes for a mine pump.
pump and packing from excessive pressure surges and it
prevents the pump from running backward. The gate
valve allows the check valve to be inspected, and it may Priming: Before starting a centrifugal pump, it is
be used for priming and starting the pump. necessary to prime the system. If the pump has a flooded
Suction Pipe: The suction pipe should be short and suction, there is no problem; a vent on the top of the
direct. The horizontal section of the pipe should have pump casing should be opened to bleed all air out of
a gradual rise so that no section of the horizontal line the system. However, if the pump has a suction lift, one
is above the pump's suction nozzle. If possible, a flooded of two possible priming methods must be used:
suction should be provided. If a gate valve must be in- 1 ) The pump suction line may be equipped with a
stalled in the suction line, the valve should be mounted foot valve that is installed below the water level. The
to position the valve stem in a horizontal or bottom pump and suction line can be filled with water from
direction, thus reducing the possibility of encountering some source such as a fresh-water line from the surface
air pockets or air leakage. The suction line should be or water from the discharge of another pump. The
large enough so that the water velocity does not exceed proper location of the foot valve is shown in Fig. 17.
2.4 m/s (8 fps). Fig. 17 illustrates correct and incorrect 2) The pump may be provided with an aspirator
methods of installing suction and discharge pipes. (ejector) or a vacuum system to remove the air from
1346 UNDERGROUND MINING METHODS HANDBOOK
the pump casing and to "suck" water into the casing
and suction pipe. When this method is used, a foot
valve should not be used. This is the preferred method
of priming a pump and a simple aspirator, operating
on compressed air, can be assembled from standard
pipe fittings. Or, a commercial ejector can be pur-
chased. Fig. 18 illustrates the arrangement for prim-
ing with an ejector.
Startup Procedure
If properly performed, the startup procedure can
prevent time-consuming and costly problems. Fre-
quently, the personnel starting the new pump installa-
tion are not the same as those who installed the equip-
ment. Therefore, the following steps should be taken:
1 ) The entire unit and surrounding area should be
cleaned.
2 ) All main and auxiliary piping should be checked
to make certain that the piping has been connected
properly and is free of foreign objects such as rags,
gloves, pieces of wood, welding slag, rocks, and lunch
pails. It is prudent to install a conical strainer at the
pump's suction flange before startup.
3) The pump and motor bearings should be
cleaned and lubricated.
4 ) The level and alignment should be rechecked.
5) The motor's direction of rotation should be
checked before connecting the coupling. After being
checked, the coupling should be assembled.
6 ) The discharge valve should be closed.
7 ) The pump should be primed, making certain
that all air is bled out of the casing and suction pipe.
A pump that is run dry may "seize."
8) The water to the stuffing boxes should be turned
on, and the pump unit started.
9 ) As soon as the pump reaches operating speed,
the discharge valve should be opened slowly.
10) With the pump operating, the stuffing-box
packing should be checked. When the pump is packed,
the glands should not be drawn up very tightly, and there
should be a considerable amount of leakage when the
pump is started so that the packing stays cool and does
not glaze. As the pump runs, the stuffing-box gland
nuts may be tightened to reduce the leakage, but there
always should be some leakage to lubricate the packing
and cool the stuffing box.
CCCNTRIC REDUCER
ONG RADIUS
ELBOW
Fig. 18. Typical arrangement for pump-system priming
by means of an ejector.
11) After a few hours of operation, the pump and
motor alignment should be rechecked.
12) After several hours of operation, the bearing
temperature should be checked; this temperature should
not exceed 71 "C (160°F).
13) The suction and discharge pressure gages
should be checked. If the readings are not at or near
the anticipated pressures, the unit should be shut down
and the problem located and corrected.
14) After running for several days and completing
a final check of the alignment, the unit should be
doweled. Tapered dowel pins between 6.4 and 25.4 mm
(0.25 and 1.0 in.) should be installed in diagonally
opposite feet of the pump and motor. It is not neces-
sary to dowel small- or medium-size single-stage pumps.
15) When the pump is subject to freezing tempera-
tures while not in operation, the casing should be drained
by removing the pipe plugs in the bottom of the casing.
Automatic Pump Control
Automatic pump control frequently is installed and
pumps are checked only once a shift. The basic auto-
matic control is a sensing device that starts and stops the
pump as the level of the mine water in the suction sump
fluctuates. That can be a simple float switch, or it can be
an array of electronic probes. If the pump operates with
a suction lift, it is important that a device be provided
to make certain that the pump is primed properly
before it starts. If clean water is scarce or expensive,
automatic water valves can be installed on the stuffing
box. Highly sophisticated sensing devices of various
types also are available to further safeguard the pump
and motor. In all cases, an alarm system should be
provided to indicate when the water level in the sump
rises above a predetermined limit.
Maintenance
If the pump has been installed properly and if the
suction sump is adequate to allow abrasive solids to
settle, the maintenance of a mine pump usually is
quite simple.
Rotating Elements: For pumps that are vital to
mine operations, at least one spare rotating element
should be kept on hand, complete with all elements
necessary for immediate installation. This includes a
pump-half flexible coupling so that a damaged or worn
rotating element can be removed and a new rotating
element can be installed quickly. Some mines have a
heavy welded steel box in which the spare element is
placed, lowered into the mine, and stored in the pump
room; the element is not removed from this box until
it is installed directly into the pump. The rotating
element must be handled with extreme care since the
aligment of the element is critical to proper operation.
To assess the wear on internal pump parts, it is
good practice to install an ammeter that registers the
motor amperage. When the motor amperage falls
below a predetermined lower limit, the pump rotor
should be replaced-such a decrease in amperage in-
dicates that the internal clearances have increased to a
point where excessive internal water recirculation is
occurring. This is particularly important on multi-
stage pumps. The use of the ammeter eliminates the
need for frequently opening the pump casing to inspect
the internal parts; as long as a pump is functioning
properly, it is advisable to avoid opening the casing.
 ANCILLARY EQUIPMENT
Lubrication: The ideal lubricant for ball bearings
is a straight well-refined neutral mineral oil, preferably
of a turbine type. For the majority of applications,
SAE 10 motor oil meets the requirements. Table 2
summarizes some suggested oil specifications. It is good
practice to change the oil in the bearing housings once
every 600 hr of operation.
Record Card: For each pump, a record card or log
book should be maintained conscientiously. Table 3
lists the contents of a suggested record card; this in-
formation greatly assists in diagnosing any problem that
might develop.
Operating Difficulties: Some 85% of the troubles
encountered with centrifugal pumps occur on the suc-
tion side. The possible problems may be classified into
four groups: no water or insufficient water delivered,
insufficient pressure, intermittent operation, and exces-
sive power consumption.
No Water o r Insufficient Water Delivered-Prob-
lems indicated by no water or insufficient water delivered
may be caused by: improper priming with the pump
casing not full of water, too low an operating speed,
too high a discharge head, too high a suction lift, a
plugged impeller passage, an incorrect direction of rota-
tion, air leakage into the suction pipe or stuffing boxes,
an insufficiently submerged suction-pipe entrance,
mechanical defects or worn internal clearances, or too
small an impeller diameter.
Insufficient Pressure-Problems indicated by insuf-
ficient pressure may be caused by: too low an operating
speed, mine water containing excessive entrained air
or gas, too small an impeller diameter, or a total head
higher than that calculated.
Intermittent Operation-Problems indicated by in-
termittent operation, with the pump operating for a
while and then stopping, may be caused by: air leakage
into the suction line or stuffing boxes with a subsequent
loss of priming, an improperly functioning water seal,
mine water containing excessive entrained air or gas, or
too high a suction lift.
Excessive Power Consumption-Problems indicated
by excessive power consumption may be caused by:
a total head lower than that calculated; too high an
operating speed; mechanical defects such as a binding
rotor, a misaligned pump, or an excessively tight stuffing
box; or electrical defects such as low voltage or fre-
quency that cause motor overheating.
MINE-DEWATERING PUMPS
Most mine-dewatering pumps are of a vertical de-
sign. They may be hung in a shaft to follow the water
level down, or they may be installed as submerged
pumps in a shafts or boreholes that intersect the mine
workings. When dewatering a mine, the pumped water
is usually free of solids because the water has been
standing (and settling) for an appreciable period of
Table 2. Recommended Speclflcations for Bearing Lubricants
Item
Flash Point
Saybolt Viscosity, 38°C (100°F)
Pour Point
1347
time. If a standard vertical pump is installed in the
shaft of a flooded mine, it can be mounted on a
crosshead on the old shaft guides and lowered as the
water recedes. The discharge is connected to the pump
column by rubber hose or, in some instances, a tele-
scopic pipe arrangement that allows the lower length
of pipe to slide out the lower end of the pump column
through a packed stuffing box. Another method of
mounting the pump is to secure it to a float or raft
that follows the level of the water as the pumping
progresses.
Selection of Pumping Equipment
The selection of the proper size pump for dewater-
ing a mine requires a calculation of the volume of the
flooded mine workings plus estimated water inflow, and
the total head against which water must be pumped.
Since the total head varies as the water rece s, selection
4e
of the pump frequently depends upon the q t e n t of the
head variation. In some cases, it is desirable to select a
multi-stage pump capable of pumping against the maxi-
mum head which will be encountered; when the pump is
operating against a lesser head, at the start, remove
several stages of impellers, replacing them with spacers.
In another approach, the dewatering pumps are
staged. An initial pump Lowers the water to a predeter-
mined level, a permanent pump is installed on that
level, and the initial pump then lowers the water to
the next predetermined level. This method allows a
permanent pump to be installed on each level as it is
reached. Frequently, these pumps are horizontal split-
case designs which may be more economical than the
vertical dewatering pumps.
It is not practical to propose a specific pump ar-
rangement; the best arrangement usually depends upon
many different factors that vary from mine to mine.
Some of these factors include: the quantity of water
to be pumped, the time available for the dewatering
operation, the depth of the shaft to be dewatered, the
depth at which the major water volume is located, the
available power supplies, the physical conditions of the
mine and shaft, and the purpose of the dewatering
operation.
When dewatering a mine, a formal provision must
be made for disposition of the pumped water. The lack
of proper arrangements has delayed a number of mine
dewatering projects and has resulted in legal problems.
In arid country, allowing even clean mine water to
flow onto a rancher's property can result in trouble-
particularly if the rancher sees an opportunity to profit
from litigation. On occasion, it may be possible to
make a deal with such an individual prior to com-
mencing the dewatering operation, allowing that in-
dividual to buy the water for some nominal amount,
but making him feel that he outsmarted the mining
company.
Napthene Base Paraffin Base
-
166°C (330°F) min 182°C (360°F) rnin
150 sec min 140 sec min
200 sec rnax 185 sec max
- 15°C (5°F) max 2°C 135°F) rnax
 UNDERGROUND MINING METHODS HANDBOOK
Table 3. Typical Record Card Contents tor Pump Maintenance
Serial No. Size & Type
01 43 783 3GF
Rated Condltlons:
Gpm . . .360 . . . . . . . . . .
Total head, feet . .320..
Suction ++or- feet. -5.
Rpm . . . ,2900 . . . . . . . .
Liquid . . . . water . . . . . .
Temp. O F . . . .72". . . . . . .
Viscosity . . . .97 cent . . .
Sp. gr. . . .l.O . . . . . . . . . .
Impeller Pattern 3GT3H-R
Dia 8-114 In. .....
7-7/16 . . . . . .
Driver - Motor Manufacturer - GE
H.P. - 40 RPM - 2900
Volts - 440 Phase - 3
Inlet Steam, psi. ga. -
Control: Type - CR-7051
Date: Condition:
6/29/43 Good Reg-Inspect
Costs of Dewatering
The costs of a dewatering operation are dependent
upon many local factors, making it impractical to
attempt a definition of dollar costs. Instead, it is helpful
to describe the various items that affect the costs.
Fist Cost: The first cost can be calculated only
after the contributing factors previously listed have
been determined. An important consideration in evaluat-
ing the first cost is to establish the source of power
necessary to operate the pumps. If the mine has been
shut down for an appreciable length of time, the power
lines and electrical distribution system often have
deteriorated to a point where a major expense is in-
volved in reestablishing power supplies.
Mfr. Order No. 01-54 Date
Pump Mfr. Item No. 2A Shipped
Ingersoll-Rand Cust. Order No. 431 1-29-43
Stuff. Box Dlmonslons: Pump Materlrls:
O.D. 2-7/8 . . I.D. 1-9116 Casing . . .CI . . . . . . . .
Packing Size 318 In. Sq. Casing Rings. . Br . . . .
Impeller.. Br . . . . . . . .
No. of Rings 1-6, 2-6. . Imp. Rings. . Br . . . . . .
Shafi . . .st . . . . . . . . . .
Packing Mfr.. 5-R-N.. . Shafi Sleeves.. Ph-Br
Radial Brg. Type-Ball . .
Packing No. 505. ..... Size 1307
Thrust Brg. Type-Ball
Size 74-05-0
Casing Gasket . . . . . . .
Thickness 1/32"
Normal Wearing.. . . . .
1 Ring Clearance 004"
Serial No.-123870 Type -OPEN
-
Frame - 404 Enclosure - Tri-Clad
Cycles - 50
Total Temp. "F - Exhaust, psi. ga. -
Manufacturer - GE
INSPECTION 8 REPAIRS
Due to: Repaired by: Cost: Remarks:
G WM - -
Power Cost: The cost for the power needed to
dewater a flooded mine is a function of the water
volume, the pumping height, and the volume of ground
water that continues to flow into the mine as the
residual water is removed. For most purposes, the
water inflow may be assumed to equal the inflow ex-
perienced prior to the mine being flooded.
Cost Determinations: T o estimate the cost of pump-
ing the residual water from the flooded mine, a map
of the mine workings may be used to calculate the
volume and the average head. T o facilitate the calcula-
tion, arbitrarily divide the workings into logical units,
calculating the volume of water and an estimated
average lift for each unit. Then integrate the individual
 ANCILLARY EQUIPMENT

Table 5. Typical Submergences for Alr-Llft Pumps

Customary Allowable
Lift, m (ft) Submergence, % Best Submergence, %

and a high-capacity, low-lift jet. In either case, water
forced under pressure down the passage at the right
enters the Venturi throat at high velocity and draws
water from below. The two streams merge in the
gradually widening Venturi and they are propelled up-
ward into a discharge pipe.
Fig. 26 illustrates the use of a jet pump for draining
a sump. In this case, a motor pump (centrifugal) used
for dewatering the sump may provide the high-pressure
water to operate a jet pump at a lower level.
Fig. 27 illustrates the use of a jet pump for draining
a passageway. The jet is stationed in a low spot and
is equipped with a float-operated valve. The operating
water is obtained from a pressure line or from a
centrifugal pump.
HYDRALlLlC MINING
Modern underground hydraulic mining in the United
States began in 1948 with the mining of gilsonite by
the American Gilsonite Co. near Salt Lake City, UT.

Table 6. Dimensions and Rated Capacltles for VA System Alr-Lift Pumps

Pipe Rated Capacity. Us (gpm) Dimensions

Smallest Connections
Diam. Submergence, % Overall
Size of Well Discharge, Air, 0 D, Length, Weight,
No. mm (in.) mm (in.) mm (in.) 70 60 50 40 mm (in.) m (ft) kg (Ib)

Wlth Stralght Dlscharge Plpe

1 102 (4) 38 (1.5) 13 (1.5) 0.9-1.5 0.8-1.3 0.8-1.1 0.6-1.0 89 (3.5) 1.96 (6.44) 24 (54)
(15-24) (13-20) (12-1 8) (10-1 6)
2 127 (5) 51 (2.0) 19 (0.75) 1.5-2.5 1.5-2.3 1.3-2.2 1.l-1.9 108 (4.25) 1.99 (6.52) 31 (69)
(25-40) (23-37) (20-35) (17-30)
3 152 (6) 64 (2.5) 25 (1.O) 2.5-4.1 2.3-3.8 1.9-3.5 1.7-3.2 130 (5.125) 2.01 (6.58) 40 (88)
(40-65) (37-60) (30-55) (27-50)
4 152 (6) 76 (3.0) 25 (1.O) 4.4-6.6 4.1-6.3 3.8-6.3 3.5-6.0 140 (5.5) 2.04 (6.69) 48 (106)
(70-1 05) (65-1 00) (60-1 00) (55-95)
5 152 (6) 89 (3.5) 25 (1.O) 7.3-9.5 6.6-8.5 6.3-8.2 6.0-7.6 149 (5.875) 2.05 (6.74) 50 (110)
(115-1 50) (105-1 35) (100-1 30) (95-1 20)
6 203 (8) 102 (4.0) 32 (1.25) 9.5-12 8.5-1 1 8.2-10 7.6-9.5 187 (7.375) 2.07 (6.79) 66 (146)
(150-1 90) (135-1 70) (130-1 60) (120-1 50)
7 203 (8) 114 (4.5) 38 (1.5) 12-14 11-14 10-13 9.5-12 200 (7.875) 2.09 (6.85) 77 (169)
(190-240) (170-220) (160-200) (150-1 90)
8 254 (10) 127 (5.0) 38 (1.5) 15-22 14-20 13-1 8 12-1 7 222 (8.75) 2.1 1 (6.91) 97 (213)
(240-350) (220-320) (200-290) (190-275)
9 254 (10) 152 (6.0) 38 (1.5) 24-35 22-32 20-29 19-28 248 (9.75) 2.1 1 (6.94) 115 (254)
(380-560) (350-51 0) (320-460) (300-440)
Wlth Tapered Dlwharge Plpes
1 102 (4) 38 (1.5) 13 (0.5) 1.2-2.Q 1.1-1.8 1.O-1.6 0.9-1.3 89 (3.5) 1.96 (6.44) 24 (54)
(19-32) (18-29) (16-26) (14-20)
2 127 (5) 51 (2.0) 19 (0.75) 2.1-3.6 1.9-3.2 1.8-2.7 1.6-2.5 108 (4.25) 1.98 (6.5) 31 (69)
(34-57) (30-50) (28-43) (26-39)
3 152 (6) 64 (2.5) 25 (1.O) 3.3-5.6 3.1-4.9 2.8-4.2 2.5-3.8 130 (5.125) 2.01 (6.58) 40 (88)
(53-88) (49-77) (44-66) (40-61 )
4 152 (6) 76 (3.0) 25 (1.0) 6.1-9.7 5.4-8.5 4.9-7.3 4.4-6.4 140 (5.5) 2.04 (6.69) 48 (106)
(97-1 54) (85-1 35) (77-1 15) (69-1 02)
5 152 (6) 89 (3.5) 25 (1.O) 8.4-14 7.7-12 6.9-1 1 6.3-9.7 149 (5.875) 2.05 (6.74) 50 (110)
(133-222) (122-1 95) (110-1 67) (100-1 53)
6 203 (8) 102 (4.0) 32 (1.25) 12-1 9 10-17 9.5-15 8.5-13 187 (7.375) 20.7 (6.79) 66 (146)
(190-305) (165-270) (150-230) (135-21 0)
7 203 (8) 114 (4.5) 38 (1.5) 15-25 14-22 13-1 9 11-1 7 200 (7.875) 2.09 (6.85) 77 (169)
(240-400) (220-350) (200-300) (180-275)
8 254 (10) 127 (5.0) 38 (1.5) 20-33 18-29 16-25 15-22 222 (8.75) 2.1 1 (6.91 ) 97 (213)
(310-520) (285-455) (260-390) (235-355)
9 254 (10) 152 (6.0) 38 (1.5) 32-53 29-46 26-40 24-37 248 (9.75) 2.1 1 (6.94) 115 (254)
(505-840) (460-735) (420-630) (380-580)
 UNDERGROUND MlNl'NG METHODS HANDBOOK

Table 7. Dimensions and Rated Capacities for VC System Airlift Pumps

Pipe Rated Capacity, U s (gpm)

Smallest Connections
Diam Submergence, %
Size of Well Discharge, Air*, Weight,
No. mrn (in.) mrn (ih.) mm (in.) 70 60 50 40 kg (Ib)
W#h Straight Discharge Pipe
1 102 (4.0) 51 (2.0) 13 (0.5) 1.3-2.1 1.2-1 .O 1.1-1.8 0.9-1.6 26 (58)
(21-34) (19-31) (17-29) (14-25)
2 114 (4.5) 64 (2.5) 19 (0.75) 2.1-3.3 1.9-3.1 1.6-2.8 1.4-2.6 34 (76)
(33-53) (30-49) (25-45) (22-41 )
3 127 (5.0) 76 (3.0) 25 (1.0) 3.6-5.4 3.3-5.0 3.1-4.1 2.8-4.1 43 (94)
(57-86) (53-80) (49-65) (45-65)
4 140 (5.5) 89 (3.5) 25 (1.O) 6.3-8.2 5.7-7.4 5.4-7.1 5.2-6.3 49 (108)
(100-1 30) (91-117) (86-1 12) (83-1 00)
5 152 (6.0) 102 (4.0) 32 (1.25) 7.8-10 7.1-8.9 6.8-8.4 6.3-7.9 57 (125)
(124-1 58) (112-141) (108-133) (100-1 25)
6 178 (7.0) 114 (4.5) 38 (1.5) 9.8-13 8.8-1 1 8.3-1 0 7.8-9.8 67 (148)
(156-200) (140-1 81) (131-1 65) (123-1 56)
7 203 (8.0) 127 (5.0) 38 (1.5) 13-19 12-1 7 11-15 10-1 5 85 (187)
(206-300) (190-275) (172-230) (164-235)
8 229 (9.0) 152 (6.0) 38 (1.5) 21-30 19-28 17-25 17-24 102 (225)
(330-480) (300-440) (275-400) (265-380)
9 254 (10.0) 178 (7.0) 51 (2.0) 30-44 27-40 25-36 24-34 111 (245)
(470-690) (435-630) (390-575) (375-540)
10 279 (11.O) 203 (8.0) 51 (2.0) 40-59 37-54 33-49 32-47 151 (334)
(640-930) (590-850) (530-775) (510-740)
11 330 (13.0) 254 (10.0) 64 (2.5) 73-106 67-97 61-88 58-82 212 (467)
(1150-1 680) (1060-1 530) (960-1 400) (920-1 300)
Wlth Tapered Discharge Plpes
1 102 (4.0) 51 (2.0) 13 (0.5) 1.4-2.4 1.O-2.0 0.8-2.3 0.7-2.1 26 (58)
(22-38) (16-31 ) (13-36) (11-33)
2 114 (4.5) 64 (2.5) 19 (0.75) 2.1 -3.6 1.5-3.2 1.3-3.0 1.O-2.6 34 (76)
(33-57) (23-51 ) (20-48) (16-42)
3 127 (5.0) 76 (3.0) 25 (1.O) 3.6-6.1 2.5-5.6 2.1-5.4 1.8-4.4 43 (94)
(57-97) (40-88) (34-85) (28-70)
4 140 (5.5) 89 (3.5) 25 (1.0) 5.0-8.8 3.7-7.9 3.2-6.6 2.5-6.6 49 (108)
(80-1 40) (58-1 25) (50-1 05) (40-1 05)
5 152 (6.0) 102 (4.0) 32 (1.25) 8.8-15 6.3-13 5.4-1 1 4.4-8.8 57 (125)
(140-240) (100-210) (86-1 72) (70-1 40)
6 178 (7.0) 114 (7.5) 38 (1.5) 13-21 8.8-18 7.6-1 5 6.3-13 67 (148)
(200-340) (140-280) (120-240) (100-200)
7 203 (8.0) 127 (5.0) 38 (1.5) 20-34 14-28 12-24 10-20 85 (187)
(320-540) (225-450) (190-380) (160-320)
8 229 (9.0) 152 (6.0) 38 (1.5) 29-49 20-40 17-34 15-29 102 (225)
(460-780) (320-640) (275-540) (230-460)
9 254 (10.0) 178 (7.0) 51 (2.0) 39-66 27-55 23-47 20-39 111 (245)
(620-1 050) (430-865) (370-740) (310-620)
10 279 (11.0) 203 (8.0) 51 (2.0) 53-88 37-74 32-63 26-53 151 (334)
(840-1 400) (585-1 175) (500-1 000) (420-840)
11 330 (13.0) 254 (10.0) 64 (2.5) 88-148 62-1 24 53-1 06 44-88 212 (467)
(1400-2350) (975-1 960) (840-1 675) (700-1 400)

* In the well, use the smallest diameter air line possible without producing excessive friction.

In mining gilsonite, a 6.4-mm (0.25-in.) water jet
having a pressure drop of 15 860 kPa (2300 psi) across
the nozzle will cut 23 to 27 t / h r (25 to 30 stph). The
6.4-mm (0.25-in.) nozzle will pass approximately 6
L / s (100 gpm) of water. Approximately 22 L/s (350
gpm) of low-pressure water is used to flume the ore to a
receiving pocket where it is sized and crushed to 19 mm
(0.75 in.) and then pumped 244 m (800 ft) vertically
to the slurry preparation plant on the surface. On the
surface, a 40% slurry is pumped through 116 km (72
miles) of pipe to the refinery.
Interest in the use of hydraulic techniques for coal
mining began in the United States in 1958. However,
the Soviet Union had reported success in hydraulically
mining and transporting coal as early as 1936. A
greater emphasis was placed on developing coal-mining
techniques in the Soviet Union, Japan, and European
countries because those countries relied heavily upon
coal, while the United States relied heavily on cheap
oil and gas.
Since 1971, Kaiser Resources, Ltd., Sparwood, BC,
has been operating a successful hydraulic coal mining
and transport system, using Soviet and Japanese meth-
ods and equipment. The "hydraulic monitor" used
in that operation breaks coal at a rate of 4 to 9 t/min
(5 to 10 st per min).
 ANCILLARY EQUIPMENT
In the Kaiser Resources' operation, the main high-
pressure pump is located on the surface. This is a
seven-stage pump that is driven by a 1860-kW (2500-
hp) motor and delivers 95 L/s (1500 gpm) at 13 790
kPa (2000 psi). The high-pressure water is carried un-
derground through a 203-mm (8-in.) pipeline to the
sublevels, and the water is delivered to the monitor
through a 152-mm (6-in.) pipeline. The monitor is
fitted with either a 23.0-mm (0.91-in.) diam nozzle or
a 28.3-mm (1.1 1-in.) diam nozzle. The nozzle selec-
tion depends upon the hardness of the coal in the
area being mined. The pressure drop across the nozzle
is approximately 11 030 kPa (1600 psi). The monitor
is controlled from a remote-control console positioned
11 m (35 ft) downslope from the monitor. The monitor
is positioned by two hydraulic cylinders, with one for
the swing and the other for the dump. The hydraulic
cylinders are actuated by 2760 kPa (400 psi) of water
Fig. 23. Typical two-
stage combination jet
pump with a first-stage
jet and a second-stage
centrifugal.
pressure obtained through a reducing valve from the
monitor's 1 1 030-kPa ( 1600-psi) supply line. This
monitor can break coal at a distance of up to 21 m (70
ft) from the nozzle.
Assisted by a small remote-controlled auxiliary
monitor with a 12.0-mm (0.47-in.) nozzle, the broken
coal is sluiced to a breaker that reduces the coal to
approximately -152 mm (-6 in.). The breaker is
located downslope from the monitor, but upslope from
the control console. Behind the breaker, the coal and
water enter a steel flume that carries the coal down
the sublevel and into the mainline roadway flume that
leads to the treatment plant on the surface. This has
proven to be an efficient method of mining thick coal
seams with a steep dip.
Hydraulic mining systems also are being developed
for use in some of the uranium mines in the western
United States. Where deposits of uranium ore are con-
 LlNDERGROLlND MINING METHODS HANDBOOK

LOW-LIFT JET 26W HIGH- LIFT JET

240-

220-

Fig. 24. Comparative op-

erating characteristics of
typical low- and high-lift
jet pumps. Metric equiv-
alents: f t X 0.3048=m;
gpm X 0.063 090 2 =
L/ s.

P 20
PUMPED CAPACITY IN GALLONS PER MINUTE

LOW CAPACITY HIGH CAPACITY

HGH LIFT LOW LIFT
Fig. 25. Comparative jet constructions of a low-capacity
high-lift jet (left) and a high-capacity low-lift jet (right).
Metric equivalent: gal = 3.785412 L.

Fig. 26. Method of using a jet pump for draining a sump.

 ANCILLARY EQUl PMENT
P i s c h a r g e Line
-
Jet
Fig. 27. Method of using a jet pump for draining a mine passageway.
tained in loosely consolidated sandstone, some mining
has been done through a borehole with a high-pressure
water jet that knocks down and sluices the uranium-
bearing sandstone to a vertical submersible pump. The
slurry then is pumped to the surface. This technique
still is undergoing development-mechanical mainte-
nance problems have been quite persistent as a result
of the abrasive nature of the sandstone.
HYDRAULIC HOISTING
Under certain conditions, hydraulic hoisting of ore
has proven to be practical. This method is particularly
applicable when a large quantity of water must be
pumped to keep a mine dry, or when a hoisting shaft
is operating at full capacity while additional ore must
be hauled without sufficient justification for the installa-
tion of a new mechanical hoisting system.
Several important hydraulic hoisting installations
are working satisfactorily. At the Devillaine coal mine
near St. Etienne, France, a demonstration hydraulic
hoist was installed in 1960. It hoisted 45 to 54 t / h
(50 to 60 stph) of -82.6 mm (-3.25 in.) coal up a
180-m (590-ft) shaft and through a 76-m (250-ft)
horizontal pipeline t o the treatment plant. That lift
required a total of 48.5 kW (65 hp), of which 12.7
kW (17 hp) was used for the horizontal transport.
In Czechoslovakia's Kutna Hra district, lead-zinc
ore is lifted 460 m (1500 ft) with an hydraulic system.
At the Lengede Broistedt iron-ore mine in West Ger-
many, the conventional mechanical hoisting system has
been replaced by an hydraulic system that handles up
to 4540 t/d (5000 stpd) from a depth of 120 m (395
ft).
One of the most interesting hydraulic hoist installa-
tions is at Anglo-American Corp.'s Vaal Reefs gold mine
near Klerksdorp, South Africa. This system is pumping
gold-bearing quartzite from the 2190-m (7200-ft) level
to the surface. Using MarsT" reciprocating pumps,
22 700 t [(25,000 st) dry tonnage] are pumped per
month through four lifts. The installation of an hy-
draulic hoisting system was prompted by the fact that
the shaft already was operating at its maximum capacity
of 136 000 t (150,000 st) per month, and it was neces-
sary to hoist additional ore.
-
In the South African operation, the run-of-mine ore
is screened. The -6.4 mm (-0.25 in.) material is
passed through a ball mill in which it is reduced t o a
sludge consisting of -65 to +200 mesh material (80% )
and -200 mesh material (20%). The oversize ore
goes from the screening operation to the conventional
hoist. In the past, the fines in the ore caused delay
problems in conventional hoisting as a result of the
sticky nature of the ore; removing the fines from the
conventional hoisting system has increased its hoisting
capacity.
PUMP INFORMATION SUMMARY
Table 8 summarizes the pump-system parameters
and features for various mines operating in the United
States. The table includes references to numbered notes
that are as follows:
Note 1
Information concerning the AMAX operations at
Climax, CO, was obtained from Al Smith, chief engi-
neer. Information on the Henderson mine was ob-
tained from D. E. Julin, chief engineer. Information on
AMAX Lead Co.'s Buick mine in Missouri was ob-
tained from AMAX Lead Co. of Missouri and Home-
stake Lead Co. For the Buick mine, the pumping cost,
including power and maintenance, is $0.62 per 100
L / s ($0.39 per 1000 gpm). The approximate cost of the
pumps at the time of purchase in 1968 was $20,800
each, including the pump, motor, and starter.
Note 2
At Anaconda Co.'s Butte mines, underground water
from the surrounding mines is collected in the Kelley
mine. The collected water is pumped to the surface
from pump stations located on the 4000 level [elevation
= 664 m (2177 ft)] and the 3900 level [elevation = 710
m (2328 ft)] of the Kelley mine. The elevation at the
collar of the Kelley mine shaft is 1820 m (5970 ft)
above sea level, and the elevation at the bottom of the
shaft is 353 m (1 159 ft) above sea level. At present
(19781, the Butte mines are flooded to the 4000 level.
Approximately 290 L/s (4600 gpm) of mine water
is produced underground at the Butte mines, and this
amount must be pumped to the surface. As of 1978,
 1356 UNDERGROUND MlNllVG METHODS HANDBOOK

Table 8. Pump Information Summary

AMAX Lead Co., Anaconda, Anaconda,

AMAX Mining Co., AMAX Mining Co., Buick Mine, Kellog Mine, Kelley Mine,
Item Climax, CO Henderson, CO Boss, MO Butte, MT Butte, MT
Depth of Shaft, 192 946 396 1466 1466
In (ft) (629) (3103) (1300) (4811) (4811)
Total water pumped, 378 158-1 70 215 145 290
Us (gpm) (2500-2700) (3400) (2300) (4600)
Pump level interval, 192 183 and 707 Single Level 55 1170
In (ft) (629) (600 and 2350) (180) (3840)
No. pumps on each 3 4 10 4 8
level
Capacity, each 189 126 69 158 63
pump, Us (gpm) (3000) (2000) (I loo) (2500) (1000)
Total head, each 199 762 396 84 1250
Pump, m (ft) (654) (2500) (1300) (275) (4100)
Motor power, each 447 1305 373 224 1119
pump, kW (hp) (600) (1750) (373) (224) (1119)
Motor current, 60 440 v 4160 v 4160 v, 2300 v, 41 60 v.
Hz, 3-phase 61 amp 67.5 amp 176 amp
Pump control Automatic Automatic Automatic, Automatic, Manual,
B 8. W probes probes Remote
Year installed 1971 1968 1978 1967
Pump manufacturer Wx 6-J Peerless 6-H Ingersoll-Rand
Motor manufacturer Reliance Westinghouse' Reliance Westinghouse
Suction lift or Flooded Flooded Flooded Flooded
flooded
Pump type Vertical Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Horizontal
Sump retention time 75 min 2 hr 2 hr 21 h r 26 h r
Pump column, diam 305 (12) [two] 254 (10) [three] 254 (10) [two] 254 (10) [four]
[mm (in.)]and schedule 80 steel 316 stainless 316 stainless
material steel steel
Casing material Iron Carbon steel Carbon steel 316 stainless 105 stainless
steel steel
Impeller material Bronze Hardened steel Bronze 316 stainless 105 stainless
steel steel
Wear-ring material Bronze Bronze Stainless steel 316 stainless 385H stainless
steel steel
Notest 1 1 1 2 2
- - - - --
*Informationeither not provided or not applicable.
t See text for meaning of notes.
'Barrett Haentjens and Co.

145 L/s (2300 gpm) are pumped from the 4000-level
pumping station and the remaining 145 L/s (2300 gpm)
flow by gravity through a drain tunnel to the 3900-level
pumping station. The 145 L / s (2300 gpm) pumped
from the 4000 level goes to a drain tunnel above, where
it joins the mine water at that level. The total mine
water [290 L/s (4600 gprn)] flows through two vertical
settlers that remove silt and into two pump sumps
located at the 3900-level pumping station. From those
sumps, the water is pumped to the surface through four
250-mm ( 10-in.) ID 3 16 stainless-steel pipe columns.
At the surface level of the shaft, each pipe column
connects to a 305-mm (12-in.) mild-steel pipe that is
lined with polyvinyl chloride (ParalineT" RD coating
applied by Barber Webb Co.). These four lines extend
for an additional 930 m (3050 ft) to a final elevation
of 1880 m (6168 ft) above sea level before discharging
into a wooden flume. From the flume, the mine water
flows by gravity through two 406-mm (16-in.) Para-
lineT'-lined steel pipes to a rubber-lined steel tank that
measures 4.9 m (16 ft) high and 12 rn (40 ft) diam.
This tank serves as a sump and a control tank for the
surface pumping station. From the tank, the water is
pumped to a mixing tank at the tailings pond [eleva-
tion = 1890 m (6200 ft)] where the mine water is mixed
with concentrator tailings and additional milk of lime.
The tailings, salts, and other solids settle out in the pond,
and the water is reused in the copper concentrator. The
estimated cost of pumping mine water for all three
pumping stations is $1220 per 100 L/s per day ($770
per 1000 gprn per day).
Both underground pumping stations have been pro-
vided with additional pumping capacity to accommo-
date underground sloughs, which can occur and trap
mine water. When the water finally breaks through,
additional pumping capacity is required to prevent the
pumping stations from being flooded. The temperature
of the underground mine water averages 29.4"C (89°F)
and the water is extremely corrosive. The water carries
cupric and ferric sulfates and basic iron sulfate in solu-
tion, and it has a pH of approximately 4. Sulfuric acid
is added to bring the acidity close to a pH of 2, thus
holding the materials in solution and preventing deposi-
tion on the pipe walls. All pumps, pipelines, and other
components that comc into contact with the mine water
must be constructed of materials capable of withstand-
ing the corrosive action.
According to Anaconda, the pumps working against
 ANCILLARY EQUIPMENT 1357

Table 8. Pump Information Summary+continued)

Homestake Homestake Homestake

Anaconda, Gulf Resources Mining Co., Mining Co., Mining Go..
Kelley Mine, and Chemical Co., Ross Shaft, Winze No. 6, Winze No. 4,
Butte, MT Bunker Hill, ID Lead. SD Lead, SD Lead. SD

Depth of Shaft, Surface 1036 610

m (ft) (3400) (2000)
Total water pumped, 290 35 32
Us (gpm) (4600) (550) (500)
Pump level interval, 12 549 and 336 366 and 183
m (ft) (40) (1800 and 1200) (1200 and 600)
No. pumps on each 3 2 2-3
level
Capacity, each 158 44 and 32 32
Pump, Us (gpm) (2500) (700 and 500) (500)
Total head, each 76 556 and 390 390 and 198
pump, m (ft) (250) (1825 and 1280) (1280 and 650)
Motor power, each 224 336 and 186 186 and 93
Pump, kW (hp) (300) (450 and 250) (250 and 125)
Motor current, 60 2300 v, 2300 v 2300 v
Hz, 3-phase 67.5 amp
Pump control Automatic, Automatic, Automatic Automatic Automatic
probes probes
Year installed 1973 1975-1 978 1973and 1976 1961 and 1966
Pump manufacturer B-H Ingersoll-Rand Ingersoll-Rand Ingersoll-Rand Ingersoll-Rand
Motor manufacturer Reliance General Electric General Electric General Electric General Electric
Suction lift or Flooded Flooded Flooded and Flooded Flooded
flooded suction lift
pump type Horizontal Horizontal Horizontal Horizontal Horizontal
Sump retention time 20 min 10 hr 3-90 hr 6 and 1 hr 6 and 24 hr
Pump column, diam 406 (16) [one] 305 (12) [one] 305 (12) [one] 305 (12) [one]
[mm (in.)]and pipeline schedule 40 + 80 schedule 40A53 schedule 40A53
material steel steel steel
Casing material 316 stainless Cast iron and Cast iron Cast iron Cast iron
steel stainless steel
Impeller material 316 stainless Stainless steel Bronze Bronze Bronze
steel
Wear-ring material 316 stainless Stainless steel Stellite on 410 Cast iron Cast iron
steel
2 3 3 3
' Information either not provided or not applicable.
t See text for meaning of notes.

an 84-m (275-ft) head cost (in 1971) approximately
$8000 each, the motor cost $3530, and the motor con-
trol center for all of the pumps cost $37,500. The pumps
working against a 1250-m (4100-ft) head cost (in 1961)
approximately $52,000 each, the motors cost $18,000
each, and the motor control center for all of the pumps
cost $101,000. The pumps mounted on the surface and
working against a total head of 76 m (250 ft) cost (in
1971) approximately $8000 each, the motors cost $3530
each, and the motor-starting equipment was available
from another project and was supplied at no cost.
Note 3
Homestake Mining Co. estimates that the cost of
pumping water at Homestake is $0.42 per 1000 L
($1.60 per 1000 gal). This includes power, labor, and
mechanical maintenance, but it excludes equipment de-
preciation.
At the time of purchase, pumping equipment for the
Ross shaft cost approximately $56,000 for each unit,
including the pump motor and the starting gear. The
total cost of the pump installation at the Ross shaft is
estimated to be $210,000, including equipment, installa-
tion cost, pump-room excavation, electric cables and
transformers, and the pump column.
For winze No. 6, the original purchase cost of the
pumps, motors, and starters was $1800 for the 335-kW
(450-hp) units purchased in 1973 and $24,000 each for
the 186-kW (250-hp) units purchased in 1976. The
total cost of the pump installation, including the equip-
ment, installation costs, pump-room excavation, electric
cables and transformers, and pump column was $140,-
000 for the 335-kW (450-hp) units and $70,000 for
the 186-kW (250-hp) units.
For winze No. 4, the pumps, motors, and starters
had purchase costs of $1 1,000 for the 186-kW (250-
hp) unit and $8000 for the 93-kW (125-hp) unit. The
total costs of pump installation, including equipment,
installation cost, pump-room excavation, electric cable
and transformers, and pump column, were $60,000 for
the 186-kW (250-hp) installation and $90,000 for the
93-kW ( 125-hp) installation. The 186-kW (250-hp)
system was installed in 1961, and the 93-kW (125-hp)
system was installed in 1966.
Information on Homestake Mining Co.'s pump in-
 UNDERGROUND MINING METHODS HANDBOOK

Table 8. Pump lntormatlon Summary+contlnued)

Homestake Pathfinder St. Joe Minerals St. Joe Minerals

Mining Co., Mines Corp. Pilot Knob Corp., Virburnum Corp., Virburnum
Bulldog Mine, Lucky Mc Mine, Pellet Co., No. 28, No. 29,
Item Creede. CO Riverton, WY Ironton. MO Bonne Terre. MO Bonne Terre. MO
Depth of Shaft, 140
m (ft) (460)
Total water pumped, 63 3 or less
Us (gpm) (1000) (50 or less)
Pump level interval, 122
m (ft) (400)
No. pumps on each 6 3 electric
level 1 air
Capacity, each 17-20 6 and 3 25 and 69 50 and 32
pump, Us (gpm) (275-31 5) (100 and 50) (400 and 1100) (800 and 500)
Total head, each 122 23 91, 152, 366 293
pump, m (ft) (4oo) (75) (300, 500, 1200) (960)
Motor power, each 37 and 45 19 and 7 75 and 298 186 [7] and
Pump, kW (hp) (50 and 60) (25 and 10) (100 and 400) 93 [21
(250 and 125)
Motor current, 60 480 v 440 v 440 v
Hz, 3-phase
Pump control Automatic Manual Automatic, Automatic [21 Manual
probe and manual 171
Year installed 1971 and 1977 1976 and 1977 1975 and 1967 1959-1 965 1964
Pump manufacturer Ingersoll-Rand Flygt and Ingersoll-Rand, Peerless Peerless
Warren Rupp B-H, Peerless
Motor manufacturer ' Flygt General Electric US Motors US Motors
Suction lift or Flooded 0.6-m (2.04) Flooded Flooded
flooded lift
Pump type Horizontal Submersible Horizontal Vertical Vertical
Sump retention time 72 h r 48 hr 100 h r 50 h r
Pump column, diam 305 (12) [one] 254 (10) [one] 254 (1 0) [one] 254 (10) [one]
[mm (in.)]and schedule 60 steel steel
material steel
Casing material Cast iron Steel Carbon steel Cast iron Cast iron
Impeller material Bronze Alloy, Stainless steel Cast iron Cast iron
60 Rockwell C
Wear-ring material Bronze Stainless steel Bronze Bronze
Notest 3 4 5 6 7
' Information either not provided or not applicable.
t See text for meaning of notes.

stallation was prepared by Robert Magers, chief me- Note 6

chanical engineer, and Jerry Pontius, assistance chief
mechanical engineer. Information supplied on the Bull-
dog mine at Creede, CO, was prepared by T. R. Robert-
son, resident manager.
Note 4
The information on the Lucky Mc mine in Wyoming
was prepared by J. F. Crouch, chief mine engineer.
Note 5
The Pilot Nob Pellet Co. of Missouri has advised
that the power cost at their operation is $0.042 per
1000 L ($0.159per 1000 gal), and the labor cost is
$0.0016per 1000 L ($0.006per 1000 gal). This totals
to $0.068per 1000 L ($0.256per 1000 gal). The esti-
mated cost of the pumps, motors, and starters purchased
in 1967 was $82,140. Other estimated costs were
$10,800for the pump column, $3400 for the horizontal
mine line, $90,000 for mining costs, $15,000for mis-
cellaneous costs, making the total installation cost
$201,340. This information was provided by R. J.
Zgonc, general superintendent.
The estimated pumping costs at St. Joe Mineral
Corp.'~Vibernum No. 28 mine are $0.034per 1000 L
($0.13 per 1000 gal), including power, labor, and
mechanical maintenance. The estimated purchase cost
of the pumps, motors, and starters was $106,500,and
the estimated total cost of the pump installation, includ-
ing equipment, installation cost, pump-room excavation,
electric cables and transformers, and pump column, was
$1,120,000.This information was supplied by the Min-
ing Research Dept. of St. Joe Minerals Corp.
Note 7
The estimated pumping costs at St. Joe Mineral
Corp.'s Vibernum No. 29 mine are $0.024per 1000 L
($0.09per 1000 gal), including power, labor, and me-
chanical maintenance. The estimated purchase cost of
the pumps, motors, and starters was $18,500,and the
estimated cost of the pump installation, including equip-
ment, installation cost, pump-room excavation, electric
cables and transformers, and pump column was $195,-
000. This information was supplied by the Mining
Research Dept. of St. Joe Minerals Corp.
 ANCILLARY EQUlPMENT

Table 8. Pump lnformatlon Summary+contlnued)

St. Joe Minerals Sunshine Mining UV Industries,

St. Joe Minerals Corp., Indian St. Joe Minerals Co., Sunshine Continental
Corp.. Creek No. 32, Corp., Brushy Mine, Mine,
Item Fletcher, MO Bonne Terre. MO Creek, MO Kellogg, ID Hanover, NM

Depth of Shaft. 41 1
(ft) (1348)
Total water pumped, 252
Us (gpm) (4Ow
Pump level interval, None
m (ft)
No. pumps on each
level
Capacity, each 63
pump, Us (gpm) (1
Total head, each 317
pump, m (ft) (1040)
Motor power, each 298
pump, kW (hp)
Motor current, 60
(a)
2300 v,
Hz, 3-phase 96 amp
Pump control Automatic Automatic Automatic Automatic Automatic
Year installed 1967 and 1969 1967 1973 1975 1978
Pump manufacturer Peerless Peerless Peerless Ingersoll-Rand BJ
Motor manufacturer US Motors US Motors US Motors AC US Motors
Suction lift or Flooded Flooded Flooded 69-11 (20-ft) lift Flooded
flooded
Pump type Vertical Vertical Vertical Horizontal Vertical
Sump retention time 8 hr 8 hr 8 hr 7.4 hr 45 min
Pump column diam 305 (12) [one] 254 (10) [one] 305 (12) [one] 203 (8) [one] 203 (8')[one]
[mm (in.)] and steel steel steel steel steel
material
Casing material Cast iron Cast iron Cast iron Cast iron Cast iron
Impeller material Cast iron Cast iron Cast iron Bronze Bronze
Wear-ring material Bronze Bronze Bronze Stainless steel Bronze
Notest 8 9 10 11 12
' Information either not provided or not applicable.
t S e e text for meaning of notes.

Note 8 ($0.11per 1000 gal), including power, labor, and me-

The estimated pumping costs at St. Joe Mineral
Corp.'s Fletcher mine are $0.040 per 1000 L ($0.15
per 1000 gal), including power, labor, and mechanical
maintenance. The estimated purchase cost of the pumps,
motors, and starters was $112,900,and the estimated
cost of the pump installation, including equipment, in-
stallation cost, pump-room excavation, electric cables
and transformers, and pump column was $1,190,000.
This information was supplied by the Mining Research
Dept. of St. Joe Minerals Corp.
Note 9
The estimated pumping costs at St. Joe Mineral
Corp.'s Indian Creek No. 52 mine are $0.040per 1000 L
($0.11 per 1000 gal), including power, labor, and me-
chanical maintenance. The estimated purchase cost of
chanical maintenance. The estimated purchase cost of
the pumps, motors, and starters was $102,000,and the
estimated cost of the pump installation, including equip-
ment, installation cost, pump-room excavation, electric
cables and transformers, and pump column was $1,075,-
000. This information was supplied by the Mining
Research Dept. of St. Joe Minerals Corp.
Note 11
The estimated pumping costs at Sunshine Mining
Co.'s mine are $0.333 per 1000 L ($1.26per 1000 gal),
including power, labor, and mechanical maintenance.
The 1976 purchase cost of the pumps was $6782 each.
The cost of the 298-kW (400-hp)motors was $8479
each, and the cost of the starters was $4893 each. The
total cost of the pump installation, including equipment,
- -

the pumps, motors, and starters was $56,033,and the
estimated cost of the pump installation, including equip-
ment, installation cost, pump-room excavation, electric
cables and transformers, and pump column was $555,-
000. This information was supplied by the Mining
Research Dept. of St. Joe Minerals Corp.
Note 10
The estimated pumping costs at St. Joe Mineral
Corp.'s Brushy Creek mine are $0.029 per 1000 L
installation cost, pump-room excavation, electric cables
and transformers, and pump column, was $82,500.This
information was supplied by the Engineering Dept. of
Sunshine Mining Co.
Note 12
The estimated cost of the pumps, motors, and start-
ers at UV Industries operation in New Mexico was
$18,000. This information was supplied by R. C.
Weagle, vice president in charge of operations.
 LINDERGROLIND MINING METHODS HANDBOOK

Table 8. Pump lnformatlon Summary-+continued)

Magma Copper Magma Copper

UV Industries. Hecla Mining Co., Hecla Mining Co., Co., San Manuel Co., San Manuel
Continental Star-Morning Star-Morning Shaft 5, Shaft 5.
Mine, Mine, Shaft No. 4, Mine, Shaft No. 4, 2075 Level, 2675 Level,
Item Hanover, NM Wallace, ID Wallace, ID San Manuel, AZ San Manuel, AZ

Depth of Shaft, 452 1615-762 2225-1 615 1257 1257

In (ft) (1483) (5300-2500) (7300-5300) (4123) (4123)
Total water pumped, 11 47 41 240 256
Us (gpm) (175) (740) (650) (3800) (4050)
Pump level interval, 253 853 610 311 183
m (ft) (830) (2800) (2000) (1020) (600)
No. pumps on each 2 3 2 7 10
level
Capacity, each 63 44 50 50 [51 and 57 [21 38
pump, Us (gpm) (1000) (700) (800) (800 and 900) (600)
Total head, each 305 853 625 319 189
Pump, In (ft) (1 (2800) (2050) (1045) (620)
Motor power, each 298 522 522 224 [51 and 149
Pump, kW (hp) (400) (700) (700) 261 121 (200)
(300 and 350)
Motor current, 60 2300 v 2400 v 2400 v 2300 v 2300 v
Hz, 3-phase
Pump control Automatic Automatic Automatic Automatic Automatic
Year installed 1976 1975 1975 1970 1971
Pump manufacturer Ingersoll-Rand Ingersoll-Rand Ingersoll-Rand B 8 J [51 and Pacific Pump
Ingersoll-Rand [2]
Motor manufacturer Westinghouse Westinghouse Westinghouse General Electric General Electric
8 US Motors
Suction lift or Flooded Flooded Flooded Flooded
flooded
Pump type Horizontal Horizontal Horizontal Horizontal Horizontal
Sump retention time 1 hr 1.3 hr 3.7 hr 10 min 3 min
Pump column, diam 203 (8) [one] 254 (10) [one] 254 (10) [one] 305 (12) [two] 305 (12) [two]
[mm (in.)] and steel schedule80840 schedule80840
material steel steel
Casing material Cast iron Cast steel Cast steel Steel Steel
Impeller material Bronze Chromium-nickel Bronze Bronze Bronze
steel
Wear-ring material Bronze Stainless steel Stainless steel Stainless steel Bronze
Notest 13 13 14 14

' Information either not provided or not applicable.

t See text for meaning of notes.
 ANCILLARY EQUlPMElVT

Table 8. Pump Information Summary--(continued)

Magma Copper Magma Copper Magma Copper Magma Copper Magma Copper
Co., San Manuel Co., San Manuel Co.. San Manuel Co., San Manuel Co., San Manuel
Shaft 5, Shaft 5, Shaft 5, Shaft 1, Shaft 1,
2950 Level, 3530 Level, 4123 Level, 820 Level, 1475 Level,
Item San Manuel, AZ San Manuel, AZ San Manuel, AZ San Manuel, AZ San Manuel, AZ

Depth of Shaft,
f7-I (ft)
Total water pumped,
Us (gpm)
Pump level interval,
f7-I (ft)
No. pumps on each
level
Capacity, each
Pump, Us (gpm)
Total head, each
pump, m (ft)
Motor power, each
Pump, kW (hp)
Motor current, 60
Hz, 3-phase
Pump control Automatic Automatic Automatic Automatic Automatic
Year installed 1973 1974 1974 1953 1955
Pump manufacturer Pacific Pump B & J and B&J Pacific Pump Pacific Pump
Ingersoll-Rand
Motor manufacturer General Electric General Electric B&J General Electric General Electric
& US Motors & US Motors & US Motors
Suction lift or Flooded Flooded Flooded Flooded Flooded
flooded
Pump type Horizontal Horizontal Submersible Horizontal Horizontal
Sump retention time 5 min 5 min 60 min Booster pumps 25 min
Pump column, diam 203 (8) [onel 305 (12) [two] 203 (8) [two] 305 (12) [two] 305 (12) [two]
[mm (in.)] and 305 (12) [one] 203 (8) [one] 203 (8) [one]
material
Casing material Carbon steel Iron Iron Steel Steel
Impeller material Stainless steel Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze
Wear-ring material Stainless steel Stainless steel Bronze Bronze Bronze
Notest 14 14 14 14 14

Information either not provided or not applicable

t See text tor meaning of notes.
 1362 UNDERGROUND MINING METHODS HANDBOOK

Table 8. Pump Information Summary+contlnued)

Magma Copper Magma Copper Magma Copper Magma Copper Magma Copper
Co., San Manuel Co., San Manuel Co., San Manuel Co., San Manuel Co., San Manuel
Shaft 1, Shaft 1, Shaft 1, Shaft 1, Shaft 5,
2075 Level, 2375 Level, 2675 Level, Bottom Sump, 1055 Level,
Item San Manuel, AZ San Manuel, AZ San Manuel, AZ San Manuel, AZ San Manuel, AZ
Depth of Shaft, 863 863 863 863 1257
In (ft) (2830) (2830) (2830) (2830) (4123)
Total water pumped, 189 50 91 3 240
Us (9Pm) (3000) w"3 (1450) (50) (3800)
Pump level interval, 200 91 91 47 322
(ft) (600) (300) (300) (155) (1055)
No. pumps on each 12 3 6 2 7
level
Capacity, each 38 38 38 95 50 [5] 8. 57 [21
Pump, Us ( 9 ~ m ) (600) (600) (600) (1500) (800 8. 900)
Total head, each 191 94 191 61 322
Pump, In (ft) (625) (310) (625) (200) (1055)
Motor power, each 149 75 149 56 and 67 224
Pump. kW (hp) (200) (100) (200) (75 and 90) (300)
Motor current, 60 2300 v 2300 v 2300 v 2300 v 2300 v
Hz, 3-phase
Pump control Automatic Automatic Automatic Automatic Automatic
Year installed 1958 1968 1968 1973 1970
Pump manufacturer Pacific Pump Pacific Pump Pacific Pump Fly@ B 8. J and
Ingersoll-Rand
Motor manufacturer General Electric General Electric General Electric Flygt General Electric
& US Motors & US Motors & US Motors
Suction lift or Flooded Flooded Flooded Flooded Flooded
flooded
Pump type Horizontal Horizontal Horizontal Submersible Horizontal
Sump retention time 10 min 5 min 5 min 2.25 hr Booster pump
Pump column, diam 305 (12) [two] 305 (12) [one] 305 (12) [one] 102 (4) [one] 305 (12) [two]
[mm (in.)]and 203 (8) [one] 152 (6) [one]
material
Casing material Steel Steel Steel Aluminum Steel
Impeller material Bronze Stainless steel Bronze Steel Bronze
Wear-ring material Bronze Stainless steel Bronze Stainless steel
Notest 14 14 14 14 14

Information either not provided or not applicable.

t See text for meaning of notes.

Note 13 providing clear water to the 6RTL-6 pumps. The verti-

Hecla Mining Co.'s Star-Morning mine is illustrated
in Fig. 28. The main components of the No. 4 shaft
pumping system are the Ingersoll-Rand 4HMTA-9 and
6RTL-6 pumps, and the information herein pertains
only to those pumps. Since the Star-Morning mine has
been operating for many years and since the pumping
system has undergone and continues to undergo almost
continual change, it is impossible to define the cost of
the entire system.
The ~HMTA-9pumps, motors, and switchgear cost
approximately $106,000, and the entire 7300-5300-2500
level installation cost approximately $600,000 (including
the 7500-level vertical settler).
The vertical settler was a "first" at Hecla Mining
Co.'s mines in this district, and it has been the key to
cal settler removes the considerable amounts of sus-
pended solids caused by the hydraulic sandfill system
used to backfill the stopes. Water jets near the bottom
of the settler are used, together with frequent pumping,
to remove accumulated slimes.
The total operating cost of the Star-Morning pump-
ing system is approximately $0.25 per 1000 L ($0.93
per 1000 gal). This information was supplied by W. E.
Crandall, chief engineer.
Note 14
Details of Magma Copper Mining Co.'s operations
at the San Manuel mine were provided by J. R. Tinnen,
manager of Engineering and technical services, P. M.
Castro, mine engineer, and V. S. Konur, chief design
engineer.
 ANCILLARY EQUlPMENT

Sloping Area
1450 LEVEL

8800 11l o Burke (Hala)

2WO LEVEL ADIT(E1ev. 375011)
* ------ -- - -- ------ - .. .. . - -- , . ',I 2aX)LEVEL

Z.~.RZMRV.~H.P..*~V. - 4
%---'I-O-'.+-l t
I
1 0 . m 11to Mullan
2300LEVEL
1 2500LEVEL ADIT(Y0RNINQ NO. 6)
r..l - - - - - :. + ---- -- -*
2-1.R.ZMRV.SOH.P.,440V. - I ZWLEVEL

2lWLEVEL
l-l.R.ZRVH.20H.P..440V.
i (Elev. 3250 11)

WLEVEL
-0-..--J ,
I
t

L--+
+l u a f t *
---
t
4000 LEVEL
I

+
!
I
I
I
I I
I I
Sloplng ~ i e a
t
w
r
z - i . k . z v r ~ v n , m ~ . ~ . , * o v, . 2 3-1.R. 4HMTA-@
I
I I

. ~ 50.000 GAL SUMPS '&

\ 53673 LEVEL
(Elev. 450 11)

Sloping Area
Water to I

I 1 '2-1.RBRTL6,7Ol H.P.. 2400 V.

iI I

7300 LEVEL

7MLEVEL
2-1.R. ZRVH,J)H.P.
77W LEVEL

7W7 LEVEL

(THICKENER)
8fW LEVEL (Elev. 2350 It)

~CLYGT81804; 7% H.P.
DUPLDC YUDPUWP

Fig. 28. Pumping system at the Star-Morning mine of Helca Mining Co. at Wallace, ID. Metric equivalents: ft X 0.3048 =
hp X 0.7456 699 9 = kW.
1364 UNDERGROUND MINING METHODS HANDBOOK
REFERENCES AND BIBLIOGRAPHY
Bogeat, J.R., 1963, "Naica Battles Water and Costs as Lead-
Zinc-Silver Mining Goes Deeper," Mining World,
Aug .
Brookes and Murdock, 1977, "Application of High Capacity,
High Head Pumps for Mine Drainage Using a Flood
Protected Pump Station," Fifth Technical Conference o f
British Pump Manufacturers' Association.
Clarke, C.D., and Reinberg, G., 1956, "Corrosion Problems
in Pumping Acid Mine Water," Trans. AZME, Vol. 205,
pp. 821-825.
Corbett, R.P., and Ralph, F.E., 1968, "Dewatering with a
4,100-Ft Head Pumping Plant," Mining Congress
Journal, Sept., pp. 33-43.
Ferguson, C., and Morris, M., 1970, "Mine-Water Treat-
ment, Inco Sudbury Operations," Ontario Water Re-
sources commission.
Hall, J.G., 1949, "History of Pumping at the Chief Con-
solidated Mine, Eureka, Utah," Trans. AZME, Vol. 184,
pp. 229-234.
Hydraulic Institute, 1975, Hydraulic Institute Standards.
Loofbourow, R.L., and Lehmann, E.K., 1968, "A Mine
Flood, Vancouver Island," Preprint 68AG346, SME
Fall Meeting, Minneapolis, MN.
Miller, H.W., and Jolley, D.H., 1964, "Flooding and Re-
covery of the Jefferson City Mine," Mining Congress
Journal, Jan.
Monroe, H.L., 1965, "Design of a Water Settler at Pea
Ridge," Mining Engineering, Dec., pp. 81-84.
Saul, H., 1978, "Current Mine Drainage Problems," Trans-
actions, Institution of Mining Engineers, Sec. A, pp.
le-9e.
Westaway, C.R., and Loomins, A.W., 1977, "Cameron
Hydraulic Data," Ingersoll-Rand Co.
Wiles, G.M., 1943, "Development and Dewatering Practices
at Park City Consolidated Mines," Trans. AZME, Vol.
153, pp. 115-120.