VAUGHAN CHOPPER PUMPS
The Vaughan Chopper Pump is engineered to handle the toughest solids without clogging. By combining centrifugal pumping with an integrated chopping mechanism, the system reduces solids size before they enter the pump—ensuring reliable performance and protecting downstream equipment. By reducing debris size before pumping, these pumps protect downstream equipment, prevent system downtime, and significantly reduce maintenance costs in demanding wastewater and industrial applications.
Originally developed to solve persistent clogging issues in manure handling, the Vaughan Chopper Pump has evolved into a proven solution across municipal, industrial, and agricultural applications.
Unlike conventional pumps that attempt to pass solids, the chopper pump actively processes them—delivering consistent, clog-free operation in even the most severe conditions.
With millions of parts in stock & ready to ship choosing a Vaughan Pump just makes sense!
Key Features & Benefits
Integrated Solids-Cutting Mechanism
A hardened cutter bar and rotating impeller blades chop debris before it reaches the pump internals, preventing clogging and maintaining consistent flow.
Heavy-Duty Construction
Critical wear components are manufactured from hardened, heat-treated materials designed to withstand severe solids handling environments.
High Hydraulic Efficiency
Advanced hydraulic design allows the pump to maintain high efficiency while processing difficult solids.
Flushless Mechanical Seal
A cartridge-style mechanical seal operates without external flush water, simplifying installation and reducing maintenance.
Reliable Non-Clog Operation
By chopping solids as part of the pumping process, the system eliminates the need for separate comminutors or grinders.
How it Works
The Vaughan Chopper Pump uses a precision cutting system integrated directly into the pump hydraulics.
- Solids enter the pump and are cut between the cutter bar and impeller vanes
- The chopping action reduces solids to a manageable size
- The centrifugal impeller then efficiently pumps the conditioned slurry
This process prevents clogging, improves flow reliability, and protects downstream equipment and processes.
Typical Performance Range
Vaughan Chopper Pumps are available in a wide range of sizes to accommodate both municipal and industrial applications.
Typical operating capabilities include:
- Flow rates up to 13,000 GPM
- Discharge sizes from 3″ to 16″
- Hydraulic efficiencies exceeding 70%
- Dry suction lift up to 22 feet
Exact performance depends on configuration, pump size, and application requirements.
Configurations
Vaughan Chopper Pumps are available in several configurations to meet installation and operating requirements:
Horizontal Dry Well
- Various sealing systems available
- Direct or belt drive
- Adjustable back pull-out design
Pedestal Dry Well
- Used primarily in dry well applications where floor space is limited
- Various sealing systems available
- Adjustable back pull-out design
Vertical Wet Well
- Vaughan’s most popular pump
- Reliable mechanical seal/oil bath design
- Eliminates suction piping
- Keeps motor and wiring out of the pit
Electric Submersible E-Series
- Popular for sewage lift stations
- Retrofits to most guide rail systems
- Ideal for deep sumps
- Available with rail system or portable
Electric Submersible S-Series
- Adaptable to most guide rail systems
- Explosion-proof motor
- Available with rail system or portable
Hydraulic Submersible
- Portable pump for tank cleaning
- Lighter weight than other submersibles
- Ideal for mobile equipment
Self-Primer
- Self-priming up to 25′
- Heavy duty cartridge design assures dependability
- 4″ – 10″ discharge available
- Available in direct or belt drive
Vertical Recirculator
- Allows Wet Well and Submersible Pumps to be used for mixing and pump out
- Ideal for mixing of floating or settled solids
- Auto-valve actuated
- 100% mixing flow for as long as needed
- Motor located outside of mixing level
- All submerged components can be offered in stainless steel
Submersible Recirculator
- Allows Wet Well and Submersible Pumps to be used for mixing and pump out
- Ideal for mixing of floating or settled solids
- Auto-valve actuated
- 100% mixing flow for as long as needed
Applications
Vaughan Chopper Pumps are widely used in industries where conventional pumps fail due to clogging or solids accumulation. Their ability to reliably process fibrous and abrasive solids makes them a trusted solution across many demanding industries.
Common applications include but are not limited to:
- Municipal wastewater lift stations
- Clarifier scum pits
- Sludge transfer systems
- Anaerobic and aerobic digesters
- Food processing waste
- Agricultural slurry handling
- Industrial wastewater
- FOG (fats, oils, and grease) processing systems
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RAW SEWAGE: Lift stations, CSO facilities, headworks, prisons, hospitals, restaurants.
SCREENINGS / SEPTAGE: Raw concentrated solids including rags, plastics and hair.
CLARIFIER SCUM PITS: Primary or Secondary scum without plugging or air binding.
SLUDGE TRANSFER: Eliminates “roping” and clogging in clarifier underflow to thickeners.
RAS / WAS: Continuously conditions Return and Waste Activated Sludges.
THICKENED SLUDGE / DIGESTED SLUDGE TRANSFER: Handles high sludge consistencies.
DIGESTER MIXING: Rotamix system conditions and mixes in a dual-zone rotational flow pattern.
DIGESTER RECIRCULATION: Eliminates heat exchanger clogging while conditioning sludge.
What Sets Vaughan Chopper Pumps Apart
The Vaughan Chopper Pump is designed to eliminate the cause of clogging—not just manage it.
- Integrated chopping mechanism reduces solids before pumping
- Heavy-duty construction for abrasive and high-solids applications
- Proven performance in demanding environments
- Reliable operation with reduced maintenance requirements
This results in more consistent system performance and lower operating costs over time.
Why Choose Kelso for Vaughan Pumps
As an authorized representative of Vaughan Company, KELSO provides technical expertise and regional support for customers.
Our team helps engineers, operators, and facility managers select the right pump configuration for their application, ensuring reliable performance and long-term value.
Kelso provides support for:
- Pump selection and system design
- Installation guidance
- Pump startup support
- Replacement pumps and upgrades
- Technical troubleshooting
- Ongoing service and support
See Chopper Pumps in Action:
Need Help Selecting the Right Pump?
Our team works directly with manufacturers and end users to identify pump solutions that meet performance, compliance, and operational requirements.
We respond to all inquiries within 24 hours.