Transmission of Solid Particulates Using a Two-Phase Medium

Abstract

The ability of water to hold solid particulate matter in suspension, together with its fluidity, make it a desirable medium for use in the transportation of solid material in slurry pipelines. However in some areas, the vast amount of water required for this type of system may not be readily available. Presented here is a discussion of the technical and economic advantages of a slurry transport system, in which foam is used as the transport medium. Also included are the results of an experimental investigation designed to determine the feasibility and transport capacity of such a system. The results of the experimental investigation indicate that the use of foam in the transport of solid particulate material is technically sound, economically attractive and environmentally acceptable.