The Australian mining industry is a cornerstone of the economy, known for its robust technological innovation. An essential aspect of maintaining efficiency in these operations is the implementation of reliable pumping solutions. Calpeda Pumps, a leader in the industry, offers tailored solutions that meet the unique demands of mining environments.
The Challenges of Pumping in Mining
Mining in Australia presents a myriad of challenges, from handling abrasive materials to managing extreme environmental conditions. The need for durable and efficient mining pumps in Australia is paramount to ensure operational continuity and safety. This segment emphasizes the significance of choosing the right pumping solutions that can withstand these challenges.
Customisation: The Key to Efficiency
In the world of mining, one size does not fit all. Customised pumping solutions are crucial for optimising performance and reducing operational costs. By tailoring solutions mines can achieve higher efficiency, adapt to varying conditions, and minimise maintenance requirements.
Calpeda Pumps: Tailoring Solutions for Mining
Calpeda pumps are renowned for their adaptability and resilience, making them ideal for the harsh conditions of Australian mines.
Australian Mining Case Study: Calpeda Solutions
Calpeda was approached to engineer a robust pumping system capable of managing the challenging conditions of an Australian mine site. The project required a solution to efficiently dewater a pit filled with hyper-saline water, utilising a customer-designed pontoon for pump installation. The goal was to achieve a consistent flow rate of 55.5 L/s and a pressure of 810 kPa, delivering the water to an onshore above-ground holding tank.

Following a meticulous internal design review, our engineering team determined that a quintet of pumps, including one standby unit for redundancy, would best meet the project’s needs. Each start would alternate between the duty pumps, ensuring even distribution of operational hours, thus enhancing the longevity and efficiency of the system.
We selected our MXVL 100-9003 – a 22 kW Vertical Multistage Pump equipped with the innovative Calpeda I-MAT Variable Frequency Drive (VFD). This setup was locally mounted on Calpeda’s standard motor mounts, renowned for their stability and ease of installation. Crafted from 316L stainless steel and powered by IE3 efficiency motors, these pumps are not only built to last but are designed to operate with unmatched efficiency.

The installation was streamlined by designing the pump frame in two segments, facilitating easy mounting on the pontoon. The inclusion of DN300 suction and discharge manifolds, complete with isolation and check valves, as well as comprehensive instrumentation, allowed for precise control based on the pressure set point.
A rigorous Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) was conducted before the system was dispatched, ensuring that it met all specifications and quality standards. Delivered within the project’s timeline and budget, the preassembled and fully tested system offered a ‘plug and play’ solution that dramatically reduced installation time on site.
Calpeda Pumps Australia continues to demonstrate its capability to design and deliver high-performance, reliable, and efficient water pumping solutions tailored to the specific needs of the mining sector, reinforcing our commitment to excellence and innovation in every project we undertake.

Innovations and Technological Advancements
Calpeda Australia’s commitment to innovation has led to the development of advanced pumping solutions that cater to the evolving needs of the mining sector.
Maintenance and Support
Effective maintenance is key to the longevity and performance of mining pumps. Calpeda’s support and maintenance services ensure that their pumps operate at peak efficiency, reducing downtime and extending the life of the equipment.
Conclusion
The integration of customised pumping solutions like Calpeda pumps is critical for the success and sustainability of mining operations in Australia. These solutions not only enhance efficiency but also contribute to the overall safety and longevity of mining projects. For mining operators looking to upgrade or install new pumping systems, Calpeda offers a blend of reliability, innovation, and customised service.