the effect of the particle size distribution on non-newtonian turbulent ...

Chapter 3 Experimental Work Page 3.6
3.2.2 Mini Rig
Figure 3.6: Steel hopper and weigh tank
The purpose <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Mini Rig was to obtain accurate measurements <strong>of</strong> velocity and head loss
in laminar flow for <strong>the</strong> determination <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> rheology <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> slurry. Slurry was tapped <strong>of</strong>f
from <strong>the</strong> 150rnrn pipeline on <strong>the</strong> East Rig through a 25mm section <strong>of</strong> PVC piping, which
included a 25mm Altometer magnetic flux flowmeter, and <strong>the</strong> slurry directed into <strong>the</strong> weigh
tank. The weight <strong>of</strong> slurry passing into <strong>the</strong> weigh tank during a data test point, and <strong>the</strong> time
taken for that specific volume to ftIl <strong>the</strong> weigh tank, were recorded, in order to ensure that
aCCurate velocity readings were being obtained from <strong>the</strong> flowmeter.
The back pressure from <strong>the</strong> 150mm pipeline was used as <strong>the</strong> driving force for <strong>the</strong> slurry to
pass through <strong>the</strong> Mini Rig.
Using slurry from <strong>the</strong> East Rig ensured that <strong>the</strong> same slurry is tested in both rigs ie. East and
Mini Rigs. Figure 3.7 depicts <strong>the</strong> Mini Rig used for testing purposes.