Experimental Study on Erosion of Coal‐Water Slurry (CWS) Pipeline Elbows: Parametric Analysis and Critical Erosion Conditions

ABSTRACT The transportation of coal‐water slurry (CWS) is a critical step in coal gasification processes. However, high‐velocity transportation significantly increases the risk of pipeline failure due to erosion. Thus, investigating erosion‐influencing factors is of great importance. This study experimentally examines the effects of CWS velocity, concentration, and coal particle size on elbow erosion rates. Results show that flow velocity and slurry concentration are primary erosion drivers, while further analysis reveals velocity and particle size affect erosion by altering particle kinetic energy and impact force. Response Surface &QJ0;Methodology identifies the worst operating condition: 2.60 m/s velocity, 195.21 μm particle size, and 24.99 wt.% concentration. This study provides practical guidance for enhancing the durability and efficiency of coal‐related transportation pipelines.