The hydrodynamic behaviour of settling suspensions flowing in a horizontal circular pipeline

The thesis describes research into the general motion of the components of a solid liquid mixture flowing in a horizontal circular pipe. The velocity gradient and concentration distribution of the solid particles have been investigated using high speed photography of coloured marker particles, made visible by matching the refractive indices of the bulk solid and the liquid. These results have been compared with concentration distributions obtained by gamma adsorption techniques. The three dimensional measurements of particle velocity distribution and concentration have been discussed in terms of a dynamic equilibrium between the various influences acting upon the particles. This model is supported by measurements of lateral particle movements. Investigations into methods of measuring the liquid velocity distribution using laser anemometry and photochromic dyes are reported and the feasibility of applying these techniques to a hydraulic conveying system is discussed.