Abstract

MCPHAIL, G.I.; BECERRA, M.  and  BARRERA, S.. Important considerations in the testing of high-density tailings for beach profile prediction. J. S. Afr. Inst. Min. Metall. [online]. 2012, vol.112, n.11, pp.933-938. ISSN 2411-9717.

The authors have conducted several investigations into the prediction of the beach profile of high-density tailings and have found that there are a number of important considerations that need to be taken into account over and above the reliability of the beach profile prediction methodology. These considerations relate to the chemistry of the slurry and specifically the influence of pH and flocculation, both of which have a significant influence on the rheology of the slurry at the discharge point. A number of examples are discussed and a potential testing protocol that will assist in assessing the influence of chemistry ahead of the beach profile predictions is presented. A methodology for assimilating the results of the testing into the likely field situation is discussed, and suggestions are made on application of the results in beach profile prediction. The suspected influence of residual flocculation on the stratification of the tailings slurry as it flows down the beach is also discussed.

Keywords : high-density tailings; beach profile estimation; slurry chemistry; rheology testing; yield stress.

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