In lithium processing, brine transfer requires pumps capable of operating in corrosive environments, with variable liquid levels and demanding operating conditions. In these types of applications, process continuity, personnel safety, and equipment reliability are critical factors for maintaining efficient on-site operations.
For nearly 20 years, we have supported a major lithium operation in Chile with VCBS series low-suction pumps, used in various processes related to brine handling. This track record includes solutions with different hydraulic configurations and motor powers ranging from 0.75 HP to 100 HP, reflecting our ability to address both specific applications and larger-scale operational processes.
Our involvement has spanned the entire solution cycle: sizing, design, manufacturing, engineering, commissioning, and after-sales service. This comprehensive approach has allowed us to configure equipment according to the actual process conditions, taking into account variables such as flow rate, head, required power, material, operating depth, and fluid characteristics.
Low-suction pumps for brine processes
The VCBS series consists of VS5 vertical cantilever pumps, designed to operate with low submersion and without critical components in direct contact with the fluid, such as mechanical seals or lower bushings. This feature reduces the risk of failure, simplifies maintenance, and improves reliability in applications involving brines, solids, density variations, and corrosive environments.
In these types of processes, material selection is a critical factor in ensuring equipment performance. Therefore, these solutions have been developed with configurations suitable for withstanding demanding conditions, providing durability, protection for hydraulic components, and extended operational life.
The diversity of pumps implemented over time demonstrates a sustained technical partnership, based on continuous adaptation to customer challenges and the ability to develop solutions tailored to the specific needs of each stage of the process.
Advantages over self-priming pumps
In brine handling applications, the VCBS series low-suction pumps offer significant advantages over self-priming equipment traditionally used in these types of processes. Their vertical design allows operation without a priming system, without manual assistance for startup, and with reduced exposure to failures associated with seals, gaskets, bushings, or other sensitive components.
This configuration also helps reduce the risk of dry running, simplifies installation, and lowers maintenance requirements. With fewer critical components exposed to the fluid, operation becomes safer, more stable, and more efficient.
From an operational safety standpoint, this solution eliminates the need for purging procedures and reduces the operator’s direct exposure to pressurized fluids. This is particularly important when working with aggressive liquids or under conditions that may pose risks during cleaning, startup, or system maintenance.
New Special Application
As part of this long-term technical partnership, we recently developed a new piece of equipment in a special configuration for brine processes. Its design allows operation with minimal submersion, which enables tanks to be constructed with a shallower depth compared to self-priming alternatives.
Additionally, this solution incorporates a real-time flushing system, eliminating the need to stop and disconnect the equipment for cleaning tasks. This allows the recovery process to proceed more quickly, efficiently, and cost-effectively, maintaining pumping while the system is simultaneously cleaned.
This special design represents a technical evolution in the applied solution, incorporating lessons learned over years of operation and reinforcing the value of having a partner capable of designing, manufacturing, and supporting specific solutions for real-world conditions.
Experience in Brine Pumping for Lithium
This project reflects our expertise in developing pumps for brine transfer in lithium processes. Through low-suction equipment, applied engineering, and ongoing technical support, we continue to contribute to the development of more reliable, safe, and efficient operations.
At VOGT, we continue to strengthen our presence in critical applications for non-metallic mining, with solutions designed to address each client’s technical challenges and the operational conditions specific to the lithium industry.
