Question

In sand stowing in-correct Hydraulic profile leads to

• A. Formation of cavities in the flow
• B. Damage of pipes
• C. Jamming of pipes
• D. Setup pulsation

Hint:

While pipe jamming is a major operational problem in stowing, its root cause from a fluid dynamics perspective in an incorrect profile is often cavitation.
The pressure dropping to near-vacuum at high points in the pipeline creates vapor pockets, disrupting the flow and leading to other problems.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks about the consequences of an improperly designed pipeline profile in a hydraulic stowing system.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Hydraulic stowing transports a sand-water slurry.
The hydraulic profile refers to the vertical layout of the pipeline.
An incorrect profile, particularly one with high points (summits) where the pipe rises and then falls, can lead to serious flow problems.
At these high points, if the pressure inside the pipe drops below the vapor pressure of the water, the water can start to boil even at ambient temperature.
This phenomenon is called

cavitation, and it leads to the

formation of vapor-filled cavities or bubbles in the flow.
These cavities can disrupt the continuous flow of the slurry.
When these bubbles travel to a region of higher pressure downstream, they collapse violently, which can cause severe

damage to pipes, create noise and vibration (

pulsation), and ultimately lead to flow instabilities that can contribute to the settling of sand and

jamming of pipes.
However, the primary hydraulic phenomenon that occurs due to a negative pressure gradient in an incorrect profile is the formation of cavities.
The other options are consequences of this primary issue.

Step 3: Final Answer:
An incorrect hydraulic profile leads to the formation of cavities in the flow.
This corresponds to option (A).