Specific energy consumption and optimum operating condition for coarse-particle slurries

• Using near-wall lift model to optimize the specific energy consumption (SEC)
• Predicting the optimum operating condition for coarse-particle slurry flows
• Study the effect of particle size, pipe size and concentration on optimum condition
• The comparison of the model predictions to experimental data

This paper deals with settling solid–liquid (slurry) flows of coarse particles with particle sizes of 150 μm or larger. The specific energy consumption (SEC), which is a measure of transport efficiency, was used to find the optimum operating condition. The effect of different parameters on SEC is determined by using the near-wall lift model. The analysis shows that the minimum SEC occurs at a solids concentration of approximately 30% by volume. The accuracy of the near-wall lift model is investigated by comparing the model predictions with the results of a number of experimental works. The comparisons show good agreement between model prediction and experimental data in the literature.

The desirable operating condition for coarse-particle slurries is obtained by implementing near-wall lift model to optimize the specific energy consumption (SEC). The model predictions are also compared with the experimental data.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide