Liu, X, Zhao, Z, Wang, G & Huang, M 2017, 'Friction losses of classified tailings slurry based on loop pipe testing', in A Wu & R Jewell (eds), Paste 2017: Proceedings of the 20th International Seminar on Paste and Thickened Tailings, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, pp. 134-139, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_rep/1752_15_Liu (https://papers.acg.uwa.edu.au/p/1752_15_Liu/) Abstract: In this paper, a full-scale pipe loop test for the backfill mixes of classified tailings collected from a copper mine was conducted in JCHX Paste Backfilling Lab. The process flow, main equipment and measuring instruments were introduced. Based on the data analysis, the transport characteristics and pipe friction losses under different work conditions were determined. The research results indicated that: the more suitable transporting concentration of the non-cemented slurry is 66 to 68wt%, and the corresponding friction losses is 3 to 3.5 MPa/km (pipe diameter: 100 mm, flow velocity: 1 m/s). As to the cemented tailings slurry, the optimal transporting concentration is within the range of 72 to 74wt%, and the friction losses is 2.2 to 2.4 MPa/km. The friction losses in R600 elbow was 1.3 times as much as that in R1500 elbow, and was approximately 7 times as much as that in the horizontal pipe.