Experiences With A Numerical Method Of Calculating Slurry Pump Casing Wear

Abstract

A numerical method computer program has been developed by the authors that enables calculation of the wear inside a slurry pumping casing. The capabilities of the program are presented along with a description of how it models the solids in suspension and calculates where and at what rate they erode the shell, due to different impact and sliding wear mechanisms. Solutions from the program are used to show how wear varies with the design of the pump, its application in terms of flow and rotational speed and with the particulars such as size, concentration, type, etc., of the slurry. Comparisons of numerical solutions with shells worn out in the field are made to demonstrate how well the method works and where it encounters limitations.