Warning: I think the 'always run your cutterhead at max RPM' advice is wrong

Three years ago on the Columbia River, I burned out a pump bearing in under 6 months following that rule. Last week, I dropped my main dredge's RPM by 15% and my solids output actually went up because the slurry isn't as turbulent. Anyone else found a sweet spot below max speed?

3 comments

3 Comments

vera_adams2mo ago

You burned out a bearing in under six months? That's insane.

kevin_wells462mo ago

Old dredge hand in Nome always ran his at 80%.

wadefoster29d ago

Dropped mine to 80% years ago... runs smoother and pumps longer.