One of the key parameters in successful implementation of thickened tailings schemes for tailings
management is the achievable tailings beach slope. Study of geomorphology and hydrodynamics of
tailings beaches has shown that the achievable beach slope is directly proportional to tailings solids
concentration (i.e. rheology) and inversely proportional to discharge flowrate.
Splitting the total tailings flowrate from the process plant, into multiple spigots prior to discharge to
a Tailings Storage Facility (TSF), will result in formation of a steeper beach profile which will increase
the storage capacity. Additionally, uniform distribution and discharge of tailings into the TSF is a key
element in filling the storage evenly and optimising the TSF effective storage capacity.
Two different generic spigot arrangement systems are usually used in practice for flow splitting:
Linear Discharge System (LDS) and Central Discharge System (CDS). The main components and
pros and cons of each system are discussed and compared in this paper. Items covered include
hydraulics, operational challenges and effectiveness in flow splitting, minimising flows merging on
the beach to achieve a uniform deposition and steeper beach slope, and the overall costs of the tailings
management system (including tailings transport, distribution system and embankment
construction).
There are many aspects to be considered, but overall it is concluded that in the cases for which that
the comparison has been undertaken, the CDS is a more effective, easier to operate and a less costly
design than the LDS.