Energy cost of pumping iron ore in slurry pipelines – a case study

Slurry pipeline transportation of iron ore is recognized as a reliable and cost-effective method for long-distance mineral transport. Understanding the associated energy costs is crucial for predicting energy demand and optimizing operational control. This study analyzes the energy consumption of Samarco S.A.’s slurry pipeline 2 over a 16-month period (January 2021 to April 2022), covering 473 operational days. A direct relationship was established between the dry metric tons (dmt) pumped and the total energy consumed (kWh) by the pumping stations. The results indicate an average consumption of 3.9 kWh per dmt, corresponding to an energy cost of R$ 2.27 per dmt, considering the average Brazilian electricity tariff. These findings provide a basis for more accurate energy demand planning and highlight scenarios where deviations in consumption may signal operational inefficiencies or equipment issues.