Head loss analysis in pipes under sand-water two-phase flow conditions

Abstract In many technical applications, two-phase flow is frequently observed, especially in hydraulic transport systems where solid particles are suspended in fluid. This study looks at how two-phase flow, specifically the interaction between sand and water, affects head loss in pipes. The study’s objective is to measure the correlation between the water’s sand concentration C , Reynolds number R e , and the resulting head loss d in pipes with different diameters L h . This study used five pipe sizes (1, 1.5, 2, 3, and 4 in) and seven sand concentrations (0, 3, 5, 8, 10, 12, and 15%). Head loss was measured across several pipe configurations under various flow conditions in a series of controlled trials. With a nonlinear connection seen as the concentration increases, the data show that increased sand concentration greatly contributes to head loss. Furthermore, the head loss was inversely impacted by the pipe diameter, indicating the critical roles of particle interactions and frictional effects. A precise general formula was developed to forecast the head loss, L h , for various values of R e , C , and d . In order to properly estimate flow head loss and control material transport processes, the findings give engineers important information for constructing effective pipe systems for moving slurries. The foundation for future research on improving flow conditions and reducing head loss in two-phase systems is laid by this study.