VAUGHAN CHOPPER PUMPS
Vaughan Chopper Pumps are designed to eliminate clogging and keep wastewater systems operating reliably. Unlike conventional centrifugal pumps that struggle with fibrous debris and stringy solids, Vaughan Chopper Pumps incorporate a powerful cutting mechanism that chops solids as they enter the pump, allowing difficult materials to pass through without blockage.
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.
With millions of parts in stock & ready to ship choosing a Vaughan Pump just makes sense!
How Vaughan Chopper Pumps Work
Vaughan Chopper Pumps use a unique integrated cutting system that combines the functions of a grinder and a centrifugal pump.
Incoming solids are sheared between sharpened impeller blades and a stationary cutter bar, creating a scissor-like cutting action that reduces debris before it enters the pump. Additional upper cutters and a cutter nut further process solids to ensure consistent flow and prevent clogging.
This multi-stage cutting process allows the pump to reliably handle materials such as rags, wipes, plastics, grease, fibrous waste, and other difficult solids commonly found in municipal and industrial wastewater streams.
Key Features
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.
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.
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
Configurations & Options
Capable of handling a wide range of industrial and municipal wastewater challenges.
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
Typical 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 wastewater
- Agricultural slurry handling
- Industrial waste streams
- FOG (fats, oils, and grease) processing system.
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.