Pumps supplier Letaba Pumps showcased American pumps manufacturer Wilden’s new FIT air-operated pumps range, an upgrade of the well- established Wilden original series, at Electra Mining Africa 2016, in Johannesburg, from September 12 to 16.

Letaba industrial pumps GM Ian Duke explains that the new FIT pump, equipped with Wilden’s pro-flo shift air valve technology, uses less air to achieve the same results as its predecessor and, therefore, produces savings on energy costs.

He says the FIT pumps range also introduces a robust bolted design, which is stronger than the original pumps and eliminates possible containment issues. “Our original pumps are clamp-banded, whereas the FIT pumps are bolted. This means [the pumps are] easier to align during assembly and there is less chance of leaks from critical areas.”

The FIT range has, moreover, been designed with the same dimensions as the existing Wilden series. “By matching the dimensions of the existing range, the FIT pumps can eliminate the need to alter any existing pipework and fit in perfectly on the same footprint as the original clamped series,” explains Duke. Many of Letaba’s clients have indicated that they prefer the bolted design and, thus, now have the option of easily replacing their clamped series pumps.

Up until now, the FIT series has featured two- and three-inch port size models; however, a 1.5-inch model was launched at Electra Mining.

Wilden pumps, says Letaba, excel in transferring fluids that are difficult to pump, such as those of a viscous, abrasive or corrosive nature. The pumps are inherently safe to operate in explosive environments, owing to their design as air-operated units, while the cost of electrical components needed when operating other electrically driven pumps is also eliminated.

Letaba also showcased the Wilden Stallion range of solids handling pumps.