Redefining Performance with the Gorman-Rupp 6400 Series™
The Gorman-Rupp 6400 Series™ marks a notable leap forward in end suction centrifugal pump technology, particularly for demanding flooded suction scenarios. These pumps are engineered to efficiently manage a wide spectrum of liquids, from clear fluids to those heavily laden with solids, all while providing a cost-effective solution.1
Built upon the formidable legacy of the Super T Series®, renowned for its consistent performance and durability since 1963, the 6400 Series™ inherits a foundation of proven reliability.1
The 6400 Series™ is available in sizes from 2" (50 mm) to 8" (200 mm) discharge, achieving a maximum capacity of up to 2740 GPM (173 lps) and a maximum head of 170' (52 m). It handles solids up to 4" (102 mm) in diameter and is constructed from durable ductile iron.1
A key advantage of the 6400 Series™ is its direct interchangeability of the rotating assembly with most Super T Series® models along with shared footprint and shaft alignment.2 This compatibility streamlines maintenance, reduces repair times, and optimizes spare parts inventory for customers already utilizing Super T Series® pumps.1
The Foundation of Efficiency: Understanding the 6400 Series™ End Suction Design
The Gorman-Rupp 6400 Series™ is built upon the fundamental principles of an end suction centrifugal pump. As explored in our blog, Centrifugal Pumps Explained, these pumps operate by drawing fluid into a suction port. Inside, a spinning impeller accelerates the fluid, which then moves into volutes that convert this kinetic energy into pressure. Finally, the fluid exits through a designated discharge point.
Specifically, an end suction pump is characterized by its design where fluid is discharged at a 90-degree angle relative to the suction inlet. Due to their straightforward nature, end-suction pumps are widely prevalent across numerous applications. Their design offers several significant benefits, including affordability, ease of installation and upkeep, and inherent reliability.3
The 6400 Series™ pump is engineered for the efficient handling of solids-laden liquids in demanding applications such as wastewater and sewage. It features a heavy-duty, solids-handling impeller and a large volute design that promotes smooth, clog-free operation. Its robust construction includes a removable rotating assembly for simplified maintenance and a seal chamber engineered to extend seal life. The 6400 Series™ is built for continuous-duty operation, making it ideal for installations requiring dependable, low-maintenance performance.
The end suction design of the 6400 Series™ is specifically optimized for "flooded suction" applications, where the liquid source is consistently positioned above the pump inlet.1 This design choice eliminates the need for complex self-priming mechanisms, resulting in simpler installation and enhanced intrinsic hydraulic efficiency within these particular operational contexts.1 This positions the 6400 Series™ as a specialized, high-performance solution tailored for common applications.
Engineered for Every Application: Diverse Impeller Options of the 6400 Series™
The Gorman-Rupp 6400 Series™ offers a comprehensive range of impeller options, allowing Hayes Group to provide our customers with a precisely matched pump for virtually any fluid characteristic, from clean liquids to challenging solids-laden mixtures.1
For applications ranging from clean liquids to large solids, the standard 6400 Series™ offers several specialized impeller options:
- Two-Vane Impeller: Features a semi-open design, optimized for handling solids up to 3 inches in diameter. It includes pump-out vanes specifically designed to reduce material buildup.2
- Multivane and Slim-Line Impellers: For transferring less-demanding solids or clean liquids, these impellers deliver enhanced hydraulic efficiencies and higher heads.2
- Continuous Single-Vane Impeller: As a standard component in Eradicator Plus models, this impeller is engineered for rigorous, heavy-duty environments such as industrial facilities, and effectively manages dirty water and sludge.1
The GR-6400 is ideal for both general industrial and municipal applications. Its use of durable ductile iron construction for the volutes and impellers ensures reliable efficiency and long-lasting, optimal performance.2
Precision in Motion: 6400 Series™ Vortex Impellers for Abrasive Challenges
For particularly abrasive challenges, the Gorman-Rupp 6400 Series™ offers vortex models that operate on a different principle than standard centrifugal pumps. Their recessed impeller creates a powerful swirling vortex within the pump casing. This vortex then draws fluids and suspended solids into the volute, reducing direct contact between the impeller and the pumped material. This design significantly minimizes clogging, making it ideal for tough applications.
The Gorman-Rupp 6400 Series™ includes two specialized vortex impeller options:
- Straight-Vane Vortex Impeller: Engineered for highly aggressive and abrasive environments, this impeller effectively handles difficult stringy and fibrous materials.2
- Winged-Vane Vortex Impeller: For applications demanding higher discharge pressures, this impeller provides a steeper performance curve, delivering the necessary pressure with less power consumption.2
This array of specialized impellers allows for precise optimization based on the type of solids and fluid characteristics. This tailored approach translates into superior overall performance, decreased operational expenses, and better hydraulic efficiency. Hayes Group can therefore provide a pumping solution perfectly suited to specific solids-handling needs, resulting in less wear, lower energy use, and a more economical choice for industries like wastewater treatment, mining, and agriculture.
Built on a Legacy of Trust: The Super T Series® Proven Rotating Assembly
The Gorman-Rupp 6400 Series™ design is fundamentally built around its rotating assembly, which is fully interchangeable with the majority of Super T Series® models. This crucial feature allows for swift removal of the assembly, streamlining maintenance procedures and enabling quick on-site modifications or repairs.1
The commonality between the 6400 Series™ and Super T Series® offers substantial operational advantages. These include simplified maintenance for familiar technicians, reduced downtime due to quick access and readily available parts, optimized spare parts inventory, and enhanced operational flexibility through matching footprint and shaft alignment.2 This integration within an established, trusted ecosystem lowers adoption barriers and long-term operational risk for customers.1
Adaptability Unleashed: Modular Options and Seamless Integration
When it comes to pump system upgrades or replacements, adaptability and ease of integration are critical. The Gorman-Rupp 6400 Series™ sets a new standard in this regard, thanks to its modular design and engineered compatibility with the trusted Super T Series®. With interchangeable rotating assemblies (impeller, shaft, wearplate, and other internal components), it is easy to swap parts between the 6400 Series™ and the Super T Series®. In addition to parts compatibility, the entire rotating assembly can be swapped between the two series without causing volute or piping issues.
This versatile design approach empowers operators to adapt quickly to evolving system demands without overhauling their infrastructure. Whether upgrading an aging pump or expanding capacity, the 6400 Series™ offers a great solution that minimizes downtime and installation complexity.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Pumping Performance with Hayes Group and the Gorman-Rupp 6400 Series™
Ultimately, the Gorman-Rupp 6400 Series™ stands out as a wise choice for any organization prioritizing dependable, adaptable, and efficient fluid management. Its sturdy end suction build, combined with an impressive array of specialized impeller choices (including advanced non-clog and vortex designs) and the established resilience inherited from the Super T Series® rotating assembly, guarantees exceptional performance. This pump is specifically engineered to provide unwavering, problem-free operation, even when faced with the most demanding tasks.
Discover how the Gorman-Rupp 6400 Series™ can revolutionize your fluid handling operations. Contact the experts at Hayes Group today for a personalized consultation to discuss specific application needs or to request a detailed quote. Our experts are ready to help find the perfect pumping solution.
And be sure to check out our manufacturing partners, products, and other blogs!
Works Cited
- 6400 Series™ - ContentPages, accessed June 12, 2025, https://www.grpumps.com/product/pump/6400-Series
- Introducing Gorman-Rupp 6400 Series End Suction ... - ContentPages, accessed June 12, 2025, https://www.grpumps.com/media/story/7397
- End Suction vs Inline Pumps – Hayes Pump, accessed June 19, 2025, http://blog.hayespump.com/blog/end-suction-vs-inline-pumps