CFD application in slurry transport through Annular Jet Pump -A Mixture Model Approach

Abstract

The transport of slurry plays a critical role in determining the efficiency, cost, and sustainability of large-scale mining operations. Annular Jet Pumps (AJPs), owing to their simple geometry, absence of moving parts, and low maintenance demands, represent a promising alternative to conventional pumping systems. This study presents a detailed numerical investigation of sand–water slurry flow in an AJP using the mixture model within a CFD framework. The Realizable k–ε turbulence model is incorporated to capture the multiphase turbulence characteristics, enabling accurate prediction of particle–fluid interactions and energy dissipation mechanisms. A comprehensive parametric analysis is conducted to assess the influence of dispersed-phase particle size, solid volume fraction, and geometric parameters, including nozzle radius and convergence angle, on suction performance, pressure recovery, and specific energy consumption (SEC). The results indicate that careful optimization of operating and geometric parameters can substantially enhance suction capacity while minimizing SEC, thereby improving the overall energy efficiency of the system. Model predictions are validated against established experimental and numerical benchmarks from the literature, showing strong agreement and confirming the reliability of the adopted methodology. The outcomes of this work underscore the potential of modular AJPs as sustainable, energy-efficient solutions for slurry transport in mining, with broader implications for reducing environmental footprint and operational costs.