Rheology, Pipe-Loop, and Pipeline Blockage Testing

Our pipe-loop test arrangement consists of three different size pipes (each 6m in length). The pipe-loop is fitted with six pressure transducers to record the pressure drop along the pipes. Flow and density measurement of slurry is obtained by a Coriolis meter. The head loss data from the pipe-loop testing is used to determine the rheology of the slurry.

Results from a standard rotary rheometer are interpreted to provide additional data to further assist in slurry transport system design and understanding the behaviour of deposited tailings and the developing beach within the TSF. The typical findings expected from the rheological and pipe-loop investigations are as follows:

• Material rheological models
• Accurate head loss prediction
• Estimation of deposition velocity
• Minimum transport velocity prediction
• Settling slurry rheology

Our pipeline blockage apparatus is designed to measure the settling behaviour of slurries in inclined pipelines with different angles and during the shutdown of slurry pipelines. The pipe blockage and re-start test estimate the duration a slurry pipeline can be left full of tailings without flushing and if the pumping system can provide the required pressure to flush and unblock the pipes after prolonged shutdowns.

The utilisation of the pipe-loop facility and rotational viscometer has assisted our engineers in better understanding the behaviour of tailings slurry in transport by pump and pipeline or open channel system. It has provided valuable information for tailings deposition in the TSF and beach development. The pipeline blockage test provides input parameters for designing a robust and hassle-free tailings transport system. The laboratory test results are factored into our designs to facilitate the best possible outcomes.