Predictive model for frictional pressure drop in settling-slurry pipe with stationary deposit

In the literature, many models can be found for a prediction of the frictional pressure drop in a slurry pipe. However, a vast majority of the models is proposed to predict slurry flows without deposits in pipes. In practice, some slurry pipelines operate with a stationary bed at the bottom of a pipe. Models covering this type of settling-slurry flow are lacking. In the article, a structure of a predictive model is proposed for the frictional pressure drop and the thickness of the stationary bed in a pipe flow of settling slurry at velocities that are too low to maintain all particles in motion. The governing equations of the model are described and the additional semi-empirical equations formulated. The proposed model is validated using experimental data from own laboratory tests and from the literature.

Graphical abstractThe flow of settling slurry above a stationary bed in a pressurized pipe is studied. The predictive model for the pressure drop and the thickness of the stationary deposit is proposed. The model is validated using experimental data from own laboratory tests and from the literature.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide