Application of a three-layer modeling approach for solids transport in horizontal and inclined channels

The three-layer model concept developed previously for solid–liquid flow has been adapted to model solids transport in inclined channels. The present model predicts the pressure loss and transport rate of solids in Newtonian and power-law fluid suspensions by assuming stratified flow conditions. Sets of stationary sand bed transport rate tests were performed to verify the predictions of the model. A 70-mm flow loop was constructed to measure the average transport rates and critical flow rates, which are required to initiate the motion of solids bed particles. The tests were carried out by eroding stationary sand beds with water and an aqueous solution of poly anionic cellulose (PAC) in a transparent pipe. Four sand beds with different particle size ranges were used. The average transport rates of the beds were predicted using the model. The model predictions show a satisfactory agreement with experimentally measured results when the grain Reynolds number is between 15 and 400 and the flow rate is sufficiently higher than the critical flow rate. Therefore, with some degree of limitation, the three-layer model can be applicable for predicting the transport rates of stationary solids beds in inclined channels for both Newtonian and power-law fluids.