Research of the Transportation of Tailings Cemented Backfill in Partially Filled Pipe Flow

Abstract

In the process of mining backfill transportation, inadequate pipeline layout or filling parameters can result in decreased stability in pipeline transportation. This instability can lead to blockages or pipe ruptures, often caused by the occurrence of partial filling during the transportation process. To address the issue of partially filled pipe flow during mining backfill transportation and effectively increase the full pipe height in the transportation process, theoretical analysis and numerical simulation methods were employed to study the causes and hazards of partially filled pipe flow in the transportation of tailings cemented backfill, as well as measures to enhance the full pipe height. By introducing the Bernoulli equation to analyze a simplified transportation model, a discrimination formula for identifying partially filled pipe flow during transportation was obtained. This formula summarizes the factors influencing the full pipe height and can be used to calculate the full pipe height in the transportation process of different filling mining areas. A numerical model was established based on this formula to simulate the occurrence of partially filled pipe flow. Combining the simulation results, the operational parameters of a lead-zinc mine in Yunnan, China, were designed and improved. This improvement significantly increased the full pipe flow height and reduced the failure rate in pipeline transportation. In the realm of mining pipeline transportation, occurrences of transport failures are not uncommon and are often attributed to the phenomenon of partially filled pipe flow. To tackle this challenge, we have devised a discriminative formula for partially filled pipe flow grounded in advanced engineering practices. Industry professionals can leverage our research findings to elevate fill heights in backfill transportation processes, employing strategies such as augmenting slurry concentration and streamlining pipe diameter. Beyond the confines of specific mining operations, this study stands as a universal reference for analogous transport systems. The efficacy of our approach has been validated through its practical application in a lead-zinc mine in Yunnan, China, yielding significant advantages. Through meticulous optimization of operational parameters, we have effectively elevated the fill height while concurrently mitigating pipeline transportation failure rates. This not only optimizes production efficiency but also substantially reduces maintenance costs, thereby providing robust support for mining operations.