Distribution Manifold

A distribution manifold for a pressure exchange chamber pumping system having a plurality of pressure exchange chambers arranged in parallel, which includes:

• a hollow manifold body defining a distribution chamber and positioned in an upright orientation and defining a central, upright axis;
• an inlet leading into the body for receiving medium to be pumped, comprising solid particles transported in a liquid;
• a plurality of spaced apart outlets opening operatively upwardly out of the manifold body;
• and
• a plurality of pipes, each pipe extending upwards from a respective outlet to an associated medium inlet valve of one of the pressure exchange chambers and the pipes are spaced around the central axis of the manifold and each pipe is inclined at an angle in the range of approximately 20 degrees to 80 degrees relative thereto, the medium inlet valves being in an upright orientation, whereby on closure of a medium inlet valve, solid particles settle down the associated pipe under gravity and away from the medium inlet valve to prevent blockage thereof.