Channel width calculation for tailings beaching

Abstract

Self-formed channel profiles on tailings beaches are determined by
rheology, settling solids and flow conditions. A model is described for
the width of subaereal tailings channels with settling solids flowing at
onset of turbulence. Early transition of open channel with viscous
Non-Newtonians is taken into account building on the homogenous slurry
open channel data set of Haldenwang. Free formed channels measured in
on-site tilting flume tests by Pirouz et al. are analysed. It is
confirmed that a number of these channels is at onset of transition and
that their width/depth ratio is reasonably well predicted. Other
channels in this data set are at low Re laminar flow at minimal
width-depth ratio, settling solids apparently being discharged.