Cutting Mechanism Design
The grinder pump's cutting system consists of a hardened steel cutter assembly positioned at the pump inlet. As wastewater enters the pump chamber, centrifugal force and the impeller's suction draw solids toward the cutting mechanism.
Key Components:
- Cutter Teeth: Hardened steel teeth arranged in a circular pattern
- Shredding Action: Rotating cutter creates a scissors-like cutting action
- Slurry Creation: Ground material mixes with liquid to form pumpable slurry
- Impeller Design: Optimized for handling pre-ground material
- Motor Protection: Overload protection prevents damage from foreign objects
Operating Principles
The grinding process begins when wastewater containing solids enters the pump chamber. The rotating cutter assembly, powered by the main motor through a mechanical coupling, encounters solid materials and begins the maceration process. The cutting action is enhanced by the suction created by the centrifugal impeller, which draws materials into the cutting zone.
Once materials are reduced to the appropriate size, they pass through the impeller and are discharged under pressure through the force main. This process ensures that only properly sized particles continue through the system, preventing clogs and blockages in downstream components.