A Sharples decanter centrifuge built decades ago often outperforms a budget-grade new model arriving today. For many plant managers, the search for a used Sharples centrifuge for sale is a strategic move to secure Tier-1 engineering without the prohibitive capital expenditure or the eighteen-month lead times typical of new overseas manufacturing. You’re likely aware that while the Sharples name represents industry-standard durability, the secondary market requires a disciplined approach to technical due diligence.
We understand the concerns regarding hidden mechanical wear, particularly within the high-speed bowl assembly or the complex planetary gearbox. This guide provides a professional framework for evaluating, selecting, and sourcing used Sharples decanters for industrial processing. We’ll cover how to verify mechanical integrity, ensure compliance with OSHA 1910.212 safety standards, and manage the logistics of machinery relocation. By focusing on material specifications and documented maintenance, you can integrate a reliable separation solution into your facility immediately. This methodical approach ensures your investment delivers the performance required for heavy industrial applications.
The Sharples brand has defined industrial separation for over a century. Founded by Philip M. Sharples, the company pioneered high-speed centrifugal technology that remains a cornerstone of modern manufacturing. A Sharples decanter centrifuge is a horizontal solid-bowl machine designed for continuous liquid-solid separation. Unlike batch processing, these units handle high-volume feed streams without interruption, making them the industry standard for heavy processing environments.
The Super-D-Canter series is particularly well-regarded in the sector. These machines use extreme G-forces to pull solids against the bowl wall while an internal screw conveyor moves them toward discharge. It’s a simple, robust mechanical principle. The primary benefit of this design is the sheer efficiency of the separation. By applying thousands of Gs, the centrifuge achieves a level of cake dryness that traditional filters simply can’t match. This reduces downstream drying costs and improves overall process yields. Because these units are typically constructed from high-grade stainless steel, they resist corrosion and abrasive wear for decades. This is why finding a used Sharples centrifuge for sale is often preferred by engineers who value proven mechanical reliability over modern digital complexity.
Sharples was eventually acquired by Alfa Laval. This is a critical detail for anyone maintaining older equipment. The acquisition ensured that technical specifications and parts support remained available globally. Today, a used Sharples centrifuge for sale in the Australian market is a viable long-term investment because parts are still supported. Reconditioned parts are also widely available locally, ensuring that a machine from a previous generation can still meet modern production uptimes without the risk of obsolescence.
The economic case for used machinery is pragmatic. New European-made separators often come with significant price tags and lead times that can stretch for many months. Sourcing used equipment through an Australian supplier reduces these lead times to weeks. There are also clear environmental benefits to this approach. Repurposing a multi-ton stainless steel machine prevents the carbon-intensive process of smelting and manufacturing new frames. For an Australian plant, it’s a choice that balances capital preservation with immediate operational readiness.
Selecting a Sharples decanter requires an understanding of how different model series handle specific process variables. The Sharples catalog is generally divided into the P-series and the PM-series, each engineered for distinct industrial scales. The P-series, which includes well-known models like the P600, P3000, and P3400, is the versatile workhorse of the range. These units are frequently utilized in food processing, chemical manufacturing, and light industrial dewatering. They’re valued for their balance of footprint and throughput, making them a common sight in Australian processing plants.
For higher capacity requirements, the PM-series is the preferred choice. Models such as the PM35000 or PM70000 are built for high-volume industrial applications, including municipal wastewater sludge and large-scale mineral processing. These machines feature larger bowl volumes and higher torque gearboxes to manage the increased solids load. Technical efficiency in both series is largely a function of the bowl’s length-to-diameter (L/D) ratio. A higher L/D ratio increases the residence time of the slurry, which is essential for capturing fine particles that are difficult to settle. When you’re evaluating a used Sharples centrifuge for sale, it’s vital to check the G-force rating. Higher G-forces, often exceeding 3,000 Gs, result in drier cake discharge and clearer centrate, though they also place more stress on the mechanical components.
The Super-D-Canter design utilizes a conical-cylindrical bowl to achieve optimal separation. The cylindrical section is where the liquid clarification occurs, while the conical section, often called the “beach,” acts as a ramp for solids dewatering. An internal screw conveyor, or scroll, rotates at a slightly different speed than the bowl to push the settled solids toward the discharge ports. In abrasive environments, such as those involving sand or grit, it’s critical to source units with hard-surfaced conveyors. These are typically protected by tungsten carbide tiles or specialized weld overlays to prevent the scroll flights from eroding prematurely. This design ensures that the machine maintains its solids-handling efficiency over long production cycles.
Matching the machine’s RPM and horsepower (HP) to your material’s viscosity is a fundamental step in the sourcing process. Low solids concentrations require high bowl speeds to generate the force needed for effective clarification. Conversely, high solids applications demand high-torque gearboxes to manage the physical resistance on the conveyor. Many modernised units now feature Variable Frequency Drives (VFD). These drives allow operators to fine-tune the differential speed between the bowl and the scroll, providing the flexibility needed to handle varying feed consistencies. You should also ensure any unit you consider meets OSHA safety standards regarding interlocks and rotating parts. If you’re unsure which specific model fits your current flow rates, you can view our current inventory to compare technical specifications across our available stock.
Evaluating a high-speed decanter requires a rigorous technical checklist. The centrifuge bowl rotates at several thousand RPM, generating significant kinetic energy that demands perfect balance. Any imbalance isn’t just a maintenance concern; it’s a structural risk to the entire plant. When you’re inspecting a used Sharples centrifuge for sale, the gearbox is often the most critical component to verify. Whether it’s a Sun and Planet or a Cycloidal design, the gearbox requires a clear lubrication history. You should look for signs of oil leakage at the seals or metallic shavings in the lubricant, as these indicate internal gear wear. Additionally, examine the product contact areas. While Sharples units utilize high-grade stainless steel, chemical erosion can still occur over decades of service. Finally, verify the integrity of the main drive and back drive motors by checking winding resistance and bearing condition to ensure the electrical system matches the mechanical state.
Erosion typically appears first on the conveyor flights and the solids discharge ports. These areas bear the brunt of the abrasive slurry as it’s forced out of the machine. Bowl pitting or corrosion must not exceed manufacturer-specified depth tolerances, as surface irregularities can compromise structural integrity and sanitation. Securing a used Sharples centrifuge for sale is only a sound investment if these tolerances are strictly met. You should also inspect the feed pipe for thinning or internal blockages. A thinned feed pipe can eventually fail, leading to process contamination or expensive internal damage to the conveyor hub.
Documentation is as important as the physical hardware. You should request the maintenance history, focusing specifically on bearing replacements and seal integrity. A well-documented machine suggests a disciplined operational environment where the equipment wasn’t pushed beyond its design limits. If possible, conduct an operational test run before finalising the purchase. Listen for high-pitched whining or rhythmic knocking, which often signals bearing failure or gearbox misalignment. Vibration monitoring equipment should be used during this test to ensure the unit operates within the “good” zone of standard industrial vibration charts. Finally, check that the control panel is functional and that all safety interlocks are responsive. A machine with bypassed safety sensors is an operational liability that you don’t want in your facility.
The application of a Sharples centrifuge varies significantly depending on the material’s physical properties and the desired process outcome. In wastewater treatment, these units are primarily used for sludge dewatering, where the goal is to reduce sludge volume for cost-effective disposal. Food and beverage processors utilize sanitary-grade stainless steel units for clarification tasks, such as removing fine solids from fruit juices or edible oils. For chemical processing involving volatile solvents, vapor-tight designs are essential to contain hazardous fumes and maintain plant safety. In the mining sector, high-durability decanters manage tailings, often requiring the hard-surfaced conveyors discussed in previous sections to handle abrasive mineral slurries effectively.
When sourcing a used Sharples centrifuge for sale, it’s important to consider how the machine will interface with your existing infrastructure. A centrifuge is only as effective as the system surrounding it. Sizing the feed pump is critical; it must provide a consistent flow rate without shearing the flocculated solids. Typically, positive displacement pumps are used to feed the slurry into the machine. used stainless steel tanks for sale play a vital role here, serving as buffer storage to ensure a steady feed concentration. Proper tankage allows for pre-treatment, such as polymer dosing, which is necessary for efficient liquid-solid separation. You must also plan for the discharge of the clarified liquid and the dewatered solids. This often involves a combination of screw conveyors for the cake and dedicated piping systems for the centrate.
Moving a multi-tonne centrifuge across state lines presents specific logistical challenges. These machines are precision instruments despite their massive industrial scale. Any rough handling during transport can damage the internal bearings or misalign the bowl assembly. Utilizing professional industrial machinery relocation services ensures the unit is decommissioned, transported, and positioned correctly. Once on-site, the centrifuge base must be perfectly leveled and anchored to a vibration-dampening foundation. Even a slight misalignment can lead to excessive operational vibration, which shortens the lifespan of the gearbox and main drive. If you need assistance with technical specifications or installation requirements, you can contact our technical team for guidance on your specific facility integration.
F.A. Maker has operated within the Australian industrial machinery sector since the 1920s. This history provides a deep understanding of the mechanical demands placed on processing equipment across generations. We don’t act as a generalist marketplace; we function as technical partners who verify the condition of every machine before it enters our inventory. This commitment to accuracy is essential when sourcing high-speed separation technology where mechanical integrity is paramount.
Every used Sharples centrifuge for sale at our facility is subjected to a methodical assessment. Our technicians evaluate the bowl assembly, gearbox lubrication, and motor windings to ensure the unit meets industrial performance standards. This technical scrutiny reduces the risk of operational downtime and ensures the equipment integrates seamlessly into your plant. We prioritize operational uptime by focusing on the condition of high-wear components like the conveyor flights and main bearings.
Beyond centrifuges, we stock a comprehensive range of auxiliary equipment to support your entire facility. Sourcing used industrial pumps and stainless steel valves from the same supplier simplifies the procurement process. It ensures that the feed rates and pressure ratings of your pumps align with the requirements of your Sharples decanter, creating a balanced and efficient process line without the need for multiple vendors.
Our clients deal directly with consultants who possess a sophisticated understanding of engineering and manufacturing processes. We operate as a family-owned business with a focus on stability and integrity. We understand the high stakes of industrial investment, which is why we offer nationwide support for decommissioning and plant relocation. If you’re moving a multi-tonne decanter across Australia, our team manages the technical logistics to ensure safe positioning and alignment, preventing the vibration issues discussed in earlier sections.
We maintain an extensive inventory of processing machinery in our Melbourne warehouse. Engineers and plant managers are encouraged to visit our facility for a physical inspection of any used Sharples centrifuge for sale. This allows you to verify the mechanical state and material specifications firsthand before making a capital commitment. You can view our current range of used centrifuges online or contact us to request a formal technical quote tailored to your facility’s specific operational needs.
Selecting the right decanter involves more than just comparing flow rates. It requires a detailed technical evaluation of bowl integrity, gearbox condition, and material compatibility. The legacy of the Sharples brand ensures that these machines remain a viable, high-performance choice for Australian processing plants when sourced with professional oversight. Identifying a quality used decanter allows your facility to bypass the lengthy lead times and high capital costs often associated with new equipment procurement.
F.A. Maker has served as a trusted Australian supplier since the 1920s, providing access to Tier-1 industrial equipment brands through a pragmatic and technical lens. Our specialised knowledge in heavy machinery relocation ensures that your investment is handled with precision from our warehouse to your factory floor. If you’re ready to enhance your production capacity with a proven separation solution, you can browse our inventory of used Sharples centrifuges for sale today. We’re here to help you secure the reliable equipment your facility needs for long-term operational success.
A Sharples decanter is a horizontal machine designed for continuous liquid-solid separation with high solids concentrations. In contrast, a vertical separator or disc stack centrifuge is typically used for clarifying liquids with low solid content or separating two immiscible liquids. Decanters handle larger particles and higher volume sludge, whereas vertical units provide higher G-forces for extremely fine clarification tasks within chemical or food processing environments.
Yes, spare parts remain accessible across Australia. Since Alfa Laval acquired Sharples, they’ve maintained technical support and parts production for legacy models. Additionally, specialised local engineering firms provide reconditioned components, such as gearboxes and bowl assemblies. This makes searching for a used Sharples centrifuge for sale a secure long-term investment, as these machines don’t suffer from the parts obsolescence common in newer, lesser-known industrial brands.
To receive an accurate quote, you should specify your required flow rate in litres per hour, the percentage of solids in the feed, and the physical properties of the material, such as viscosity. It’s also helpful to define your desired cake dryness and centrate clarity. Providing details on your current electrical infrastructure and any material compatibility requirements, such as 316 stainless steel, ensures the machine matches your facility’s operational parameters.
Many used Sharples units are constructed from high-grade stainless steel, making them suitable for refurbishment to food-grade standards. This process involves replacing all non-metallic components, such as seals and gaskets, with FDA-approved materials and ensuring the product contact surfaces are polished to the required sanitary finish. We recommend verifying the specific alloy of the bowl and conveyor to ensure it meets the chemical resistance needs of your food or beverage process.
Relocation costs vary based on the machine’s dimensions, weight, and the distance between sites. Because these units are heavy, precision-engineered instruments, they require specialised lifting equipment and secure transport to prevent bearing damage. While we don’t provide flat-rate pricing, F.A. Maker offers comprehensive machinery relocation services nationwide. We provide tailored estimates that account for decommissioning, transport logistics, and the technical requirements of moving multi-tonne industrial equipment safely across state lines.
A well-maintained Sharples centrifuge can operate for 30 years or more. These machines were engineered with robust stainless steel frames and heavy-duty gearboxes designed for continuous industrial use. Their lifespan depends heavily on regular lubrication, vibration monitoring, and the timely replacement of wear parts like bearings and conveyor tiles. With a disciplined maintenance schedule, a used unit often provides the same operational longevity as a new machine at a lower capital cost.
F.A. Maker provides extensive technical support through our machinery relocation and decommissioning services. While we act as a supplier of used industrial equipment, our team understands the complexities of integrating a decanter into an existing process line. We assist with the physical positioning and alignment of the unit, which is critical for preventing operational vibration. Our consultants are available to discuss your facility’s layout and the technical requirements for a successful installation.
Choosing a used Sharples centrifuge for sale is generally a superior strategy compared to purchasing a new machine from an unproven brand. Sharples engineering is an industry benchmark for durability and separation efficiency. Lesser-known manufacturers often lack the established parts network and technical documentation available for legacy Sharples models. By investing in a Tier-1 brand, you ensure that your plant has access to reliable technical support and high-quality reconditioned parts for decades.