Abstract: Disclosed is a self propelled device and method for transporting and positioning bulk solids handling equipment across working surfaces of limited bearing strength. Multiple advancing sleds (10) and equipment base sleds (12) are connected by interlocking angles (21) and thrust cylinders (15). Alternate extension and retraction of thrust cylinders (15) cause alternate sleds to push forward while other sleds serve as anchors. Methods to use the self advancing mining sled in hydraulic mining and dry mining applications are disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed is a device and method to increase density of slurry transported by slurry pumping systems. A connection is made to the existing slurry pipeline so that a portion of slurry is drawn into the device. Multiple settling chambers are filled and pressurized by the slurry. Settling in these chambers segregates the processed slurry into a high density stream and a low density stream. The low density stream is returned to the slurry make up area. The high density stream is returned to mix with the unprocessed slurry remaining in the existing slurry pipeline. A computer processor controls the amount of low density slurry withdrawn so that the final slurry density and slurry velocity meet set point values.