In designing hydrotransport systems, a slurry solid phase concentration is determined, that provides for the lowest power inputs and specific energy consumption in hydraulic transportation. At present, this concentration parameter is chosen by designer, as a rule, on the basis of his personal experience. Calculations, presented in the article, show, that power inputs for hydraulic transportation of solids are a function of the flow solid phase and slurry mechanical characteristics. The article shows, that power required for hydraulic transportation, as well as specific energy consumption of this process, decreases with increase in solid particles concentration, and reaches a certain limiting minimal value, exceeding which, further concentration increase leads to higher power inputs. The lowest hydraulic power and specific energy consumption characterize the most economical operating mode of hydrotransport system, at which applied pumping unit is operating with maximum efficiency.

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