What are helical screw pumps usually used for?

Helical screw pumps are specifically designed to handle viscous fluids, making them particularly effective for pumping slurries and sludges. The design of these pumps utilizes a helical screw mechanism that allows for the gentle and efficient movement of materials that are thick, abrasive, or contain solids, without causing excessive shear or damage to the fluid. This capability is critical in applications such as wastewater treatment, where slurries are typical, as well as in various industrial processes that require the movement of sludgy materials.

Other pump types may be more suited for clear water or gaseous substances. For example, centrifugal pumps are often utilized for pumping clear water due to their efficiency with low-viscosity fluids. Moreover, the pumping of large volumes of air usually requires different types of compressors or blowers rather than helical screw pumps. Similarly, sediment removal from wells typically calls for pumps designed specifically for that environment, often submersible pumps or well pumps, which are engineered to handle the nuances of well applications. Thus, the versatility and design of helical screw pumps make them the preferred choice for slurries and sludges.