Regardless of the type of manure being handled, it is important to use equipment designed for that purpose and to operate and maintain the equipment according to manufacturer's instructions. The equipment must be capable of functioning reliably in a corrosive environment. Equipment also requires proper maintenance if it is expected to have a long service life. Preventative maintenance and the use of reliable equipment are critical for avoiding problems. Pumps used in liquid systems require some method of screening out or cutting solid material.
Problems can occur when clumps of solids enter the pump.
In liquid manure, solids will separate from liquids during storage, therefore agitation is required to bring the solids back into suspension. Chopper pumps are appropriate since they do not easily become plugged with solids. While liquids are transferred by gravity or by pumps, solid manure is transferred by conveyors, augers, piston pumps or front end loaders.