Scaling up of conveying parameters using computer-aided design from test rig data to commercial design parameter for crushed bath

Abstract

The work reported in this paper arises from the needs of the National Aluminium Company of India to convey crushed bath material over distances up to 1km at their smelter in Bhubaneswar. The Regional Research Laboratory was commissioned to undertake conveying trials with the material and provide the major design parameters for a practical system. From the conveying characteristics derived from the conveying trials with the product in the 80mm bore pipeline, scaling parameters were applied for the purpose of pipeline design. Scaling was first carried out to the length and geometry of the plant pipeline, and then in terms of pipeline bore by using scaling method. Several pipeline bores were included, so that the influence of air supply pressure could also be investigated. Pipeline bores, air supply pressure and volumetric flow rates, and approximate power requirement were determined for the required duty. It is hoped this project may provide a suitable check on the scaling technique used based on the performance of the installed system.