Trash Pumps
Trash pumps are useful when removing fluids containing some solid matter which
would clog a general pump, such as sand, mud, twigs, pebbles and leaves. Instead of crushing the solid matter,
these pumps are designed so that solids simply pass through the pump and out the other end. Such pumps are
typically very large in size and are designed for challenging situations, such as sewage, industrial wastewater,
flood control, agriculture, and horticulture. Capable of high speed processing, these trash pumps can transfer
hundreds of gallons per minute.
Some trash pumps are adjustable speed, meaning that the speed can be varied by the
operator, whereas others maintain a set, predetermined pumping speed. These pumps may be powered by a variety of means, depending on the model. Some
different pump power sources are: gasoline, kerosene, alternating current, direct current, compressed air,
natural gas, water, and solar energy.
Trends In Trash Pumps
One trend is portability. Portable pumps can be helpful in handling smaller particulate matter
and has the advantage of allowing the operator to move the pump to different sites as needed. An example is the
Gorman-Rupp portable trash pumps.
Another trend is ease of repair, as manufacturers increasingly compete for a market which
requires as little pump downtime as possible. For example, many of the portable "off the shelf" IPT series of trash
pumps by Gorman-Rupp feature one-tool serviceability (the tool is included with the product).
Yet another trend is self-priming pumps. These are becoming increasingly popular due to the fact
that they are able to create a pumping vacuum without external help.
Features To Look For In Trash Pumps
A tough impeller is one of the most important features to look for in a pump which has to deal
with a challenging environment. The impeller in such pumps is usually made of cast iron, for maximum durability
against the onslaught of solid matter. Performing a critical function in pumping, the impeller is a rotating blade
which operates within a cylinder in the pump, and the rotating impeller pushes water against the wall of the
cylinder, thus making the water flow faster and creating pressure.
Another helpful feature in this type of pump is a strainer. This can be a huge help when the
pump is operational by preventing the entry of solids which are larger than the pump can handle.
Another thing to look for is if the fluid to be pumped contains corrosives or abrasives, it is
important to ensure that these are compatible with the construction materials of the pump. For example, specialized
petrochemical or hydrocarbon trash pumps are required if the fluid to be pumped contains chemical such as gasoline, kerosene,
asphalt and certain types of oil.
For a smaller size pump, a useful feature is an easy access cover for cleaning it out if it
becomes clogged, without needing to use suction or hoses.
Trash pumps are the best way to process fluids which contain debris, but they do not
necessarily break down the debris. The overall goal of this pump is therefore simply to move the fluid. Many
factors determine the selection of the best pump, such as size of the solid debris, the desired pump speed,
power source, presence of any corrosive, abrasive or flammable materials, and so on.
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