Bed-load Velocity Meter System

In the coarse particle transportation industry, there are major challenges in pumping mineral suspensions due to water scarcity. As a result, more solids are transported and pipe blockages occur which cause major problems such as environmental spillages and economic losses (pipe replacement, wastage removal). The deposits of solid particles inside the pipe during pumping must be monitored to prevent pipe blockages. 

A bed-load velocity meter prototype system was developed to monitor particle velocities and solids around the inner pipe circumference. A market study (feasibility study) on the proposed technology was carried out, and the overall outcome was very positive, showing a need for this technology in South Africa. The technology may be customised to measure the fluid in the pipe and the customer's needs.

Benefits

• Early warning of the presence of slow moving or stationary solids which informs operators to take corrective action and avoid pipe blockages.

• Current pipelines are operated at velocities higher than absolutely necessary; the application of bed-load velocity allows the operator to set the velocity at an optimal value that is safer for operation.