Characterization, Rheological and Pipe Loop Test Studies on Fly Ash Samples

Abstract

In India, about 75% of total electrical energy is generated from thermal power plants which in turn release about 130 million tones of fly ash is a major problem faced by the power plants. Presently fly ash is being transported as lean slurry in pipe lines requiring about 80 to 85% of water with more energy input. The objective of the present study was to evaluate fly ash characterization-mainly particle size distribution, material; density, sedimentation tests(maximum static settled concentration), rheological analysis for measuring viscosity, and pipe loop tests studies in 50 mm and 100 mm diameter pipes for the 130 MW and 100 MW power plant ash samples generated at BPSL integrated steel plant, Rengali, Sambalpur. The sedimentation (maximum static settled concentration) tests conducted on the two ash samples for the proposed HCSD systems (Pumping Station-1 and Pumping Station-2) indicated that the mixed ash sample for the Pumping Station-1 can be transported at a higher solids concentration than that of Pumping Station-2.The maximum static settled concentration (Cw-max) value of pumping station 1 and 2 were determined to be 68.18% and 68.8% respectively. The rheological analysis of the proposed pumping station-1 ash samples indicated higher viscosity than pumping station-2 in the slurry concentration range of 50-65% by weight. The pipe loop tests conducted in 50 mm and 100 mm diameter pipes using the two ash samples indicated that it is quite feasible to transport the ash slurry at higher solids concentration in order to save energy and precious water substantially.