BLACK MESA PIPELINE

Slurry Pipeline Design Considerations

Slurry pipelines can be a viable, efficient method for transportation of bulk commodities across a range of distances.  Generally, slurry transport is most effective in applications where:

• Particle size distribution is consistent and compatible with both pipeline transportation requirements and end use
• The solid product and liquid carrier are compatible
• Adequate quantities of liquid carrier are available

The most common applications for slurry pipelines include industrial minerals such as coal, fly ash, limestone, phosphate and kaolin, and various metallic mining streams (ores, concentrates and tailings) for copper, iron and nickel.  Water-based slurries are by far the most common.  However, Black Mesa personnel and others have also investigated slurries based on other liquids such as methanol, petroleum products, and liquid CO₂.

Other Information

• Slurry Design FAQ

• List of Slurry Pipelines