Clogged pumps not only halt the flow of wastewater, they can also grind workflow to a halt while maintenance is performed. Using pumps that offer unrestricted flow can help keep things running smoothly. The designers of the Series 1600 industrial horizontal vortex sump pump from Vertiflo Pump Co. made the unit with the intent of keeping it in operation.

The pump’s fully recessed vortex impeller design provides an unrestricted flow since the impeller is not typically in contact with the solids being pumped. Applications for the pump include slurries, fragile food processing solids, pulpy solids, oils, pollution control and wastewater treatment. It can handle solids up to 4 inches in diameter.

“Pumping sewage, stringy product, light slurries and other soft solids is easily accomplished with the concentric volute design, offering unobstructed flow and smooth passage of the product being pumped,” says Bob Goldtrap, vice president of sales and marketing for Vertiflo Pump Co. “Pumping secondary biosolids in wastewater treatment facilities is an ideal application. It is easy and less costly to repair than competitive products.”

The Series 1600 offers heads to 170 feet, and it can operate in temperatures up to 250 degrees F with flows up to 1,600 gpm. Construction options include cast iron, 316 stainless steel fitted, all 316 stainless steel, Alloy 20 and CD4MC. The Model 1620 has a 0.875-inch shaft diameter with a 1.25-inch sleeve, while the Model 1626 has a 1.25-inch shaft diameter with a 1.625-inch sleeve. The unit is positively driven and gasketed, protecting the motor shaft from the liquid being pumped. Using any NEMA standard JP shaft motor, its standard JP shaft extension allows for easy interchangeability to packing standard mechanical seal or optional single or double mechanical seals of various designs and materials of construction. All pumps are designed with back pullout feature, which allows for the easy removal of all rotating components.

“That allows for easy inspection or service/maintenance without disturbing the piping to the pump, which is a cost-saving feature,” says Goldtrap.

All the unit’s suction and discharge openings are flanged for installation ease and integrity, while the impellers have wiping vanes that reduce axial loading and prevent dirt from entering the sealing area. Its vortex-type concentric design casing has an extra-heavy wall thickness for corrosion protection.

“Its durability and being able to pump 4-inch solids makes it a great fit in a wastewater plant,” says Goldtrap. “It’s been well-received in the industry.” 513/530-0888; www.vertiflopump.com