Subaqueous mining tailings placement
US9068697B2 · kind B2 · utility
1Cited by
7References
12Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 29, 2013 |
| Grant date | Jun 30, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 25, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T137/0335
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A process for reducing segregation of mining tailings while being deposited below the surface of a column of fluid is provided which comprises introducing the mining tailings into a downpipe having an inlet at or near the surface of the column of fluid and an outlet submerged in the column of fluid; providing at least one pressure drop element in the downpipe to prevent acceleration of the mining tailings and maintain the tailings flow therethrough; and providing a diffusing device at the outlet of the downpipe to reduce the velocity of the mining tailings as the tailings are discharged therefrom.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.