Detection of oversized material in a hydrotransport slurry pipe using a non-invasive acoustic method

Abstract

Hydrotransport of solids through a pipe is a cost and energy efficient method to transport solid material over long distances. A problem in the hydrotransport of fine particle slurries is the presence of large material in the line, such as rocks or metal fragments broken off shovels. These rocks may enter the slurry line through breaks in screens. This large material can damage booster pumps and downstream equipment resulting in repairs and loss of production. The objective of this study was to develop a reliable, non-intrusive, and on-line method for the detection of large material in the system. Acoustic detection methods are ideal since they are non-invasive. Any probe located within the pipe would be unlikely to survive the harsh conditions present within the line. A slurry of sand and water was transported in a 0.05 m diameter stainless steel pipeline consisting of inclined, vertical and horizontal pipe sections. Rocks of different sizes, shapes and materials were added to the slurry. Acoustic measurements were recorded at different locations along the pipeline. Analysis of signals recorded by microphones attached to the pipe wall allows for the reliable detection of all rocks, with no false positives.