Keeping mines moving with dewatering pump truck filling

In mining operations, truck filling is a critical process that ensures water trucks are supplied efficiently for dust suppression, equipment cooling, drilling support, and fire control. But what exactly is truck filling in mining? It refers to the transfer of water from a source - such as a pit, sump, or reservoir, into large water trucks using high-capacity pumps and standpipe systems. These trucks are essential for maintaining safe and productive conditions across the mine site, especially in open-pit environments where dust control is crucial.

So, which pump technology is used for this application? A widely used pumping solution for this application is dry-priming, diesel-powered water pumps. These units are commonly found on construction and mining sites due to their reliability and efficiency in demanding environments.

Choosing the right pump for truck filling involves several critical factors. It is all about how far and how high you need to move the water and of course how fast you may want to fill the truck. However, most of our standard surface pumps would handle filling in just a couple of minutes.

The key determining factor is the reservoir’s position relative to the fill station, specifically its elevation and distance. These spatial variables directly influence the required head pressure for the system to operate effectively. Solids handling capability is also important, especially if the water contains sediment or debris. Site infrastructure determines whether diesel or electric power is more suitable. Durability, ease of maintenance, and the physical footprint of the pump system also play key roles in selection.

Atlas Copco pumps are particularly well-suited for this application. The ideal pumps for this application would be our PAC F44 or PAC F66 models with sufficient flow and head for most of these applications. They are easy to transport, rapidly deployed, have a compact footprint, and the pump-end technology makes them ideal for a wide range of these applications. The dry priming and ability of the pump-ends to stay primed allow for quick starting and filling of the water trucks.

Our controller technology also allows the customer to install their own controls systems by utilizing the I/O’s (inputs/outputs) available on the pump controller for automatic startup and filling of the truck. This alleviates the needs for any truck drivers exiting the vehicle for the filling operation, driving the demand for increased efficiency and increased safety.

With these innovations, our pumping solutions not only streamline operations but also empower customers to tailor systems to their specific site needs. By combining robust hardware with flexible control options, we’re helping industries achieve safer, smarter, and more efficient fluid handling, one truck at a time.