Simplified Slurry Calculation Method

(SSL Module Only ) The Simplified Slurry Calculation Method was developed for two-layer heterogeneous slurry flow with a newtonian carrier fluid. This method is similar to the Detailed Slurry Calculation Method, but uses a simpler method to estimate V50. The following data is required for the Simplified Calculation Method:

  • Temperature

  • Solids concentration

  • Density

  • d50 particle size

  • M exponent value

Horizontal Pipes

The correlation for additional pressure loss in horizontal pipes due to the slurry is given by Wilson, et al. 2006Wilson, K.C., G.R. Addie, A. Sellgren and R. Clift, Slurry Transport Using Centrifugal Pumps, 3rd Ed., published by Springer, 2006., on page 130

       (1)

Where im is the dimensionless head gradient and Vm is the mean velocity based on the full diameter regardless of whether any solids collection in the bottom of the pipe has reduced the effective diameter. By adding in the base fluid pressure loss, the full head gradient is given by Wilson, et al. 2006, on page 134 (note that Wilson, et al, assume the fluid is water where here the fluid is generalized)

     (2)

Noting that:

we get the following solution for the total head gradient:

     (3)

Calculating the V50 Value

Equation 3 above needs the velocity at which 50% of the solids are suspended by the fluid, V50. An estimation shown in Wilson, et al, 2006, on page 141, is used.

     (4)

The relative viscosity vr is the ratio of the actual fluid viscosity to that of water at 20 degrees C (i.e. 1.0016 centipoise).