Today, the issues related to solving the problem of finding an effective distribution of oil flows through the system of oil pipelines in order to reduce the total energy consumption are relevant. The solution to this problem is connected with selection of rational pumping modes for various technological sections of oil pipelines using modern methods of mathematical programming or new techniques for improving the energy and transport characteristics of oil. Reducing energy consumption during pumping of crude through oil trunk pipelines can be achieved by various methods. Numerous investigations in this direction are mainly carried out to save energy on separate single-line pipelines. However, due to the development of the network of trunk oil pipelines in the world over the past decades, the issues of energy efficient management of oil flows throughout the entire oil pipeline system of oil and gas enterprises become urgent. This paper analyses parameters for pipeline transport of high-viscosity and heavy oils. The article proposes a method for assessing the rheological properties of oil for further planning of pumping taking into account the preservation of oil quality and an increase in energy and transport characteristics. The proposed solutions and tasks for predicting changes in the viscosity-temperature characteristics of the flow for blends of different oil types are especially relevant in the current conditions of an increase in the share of oil production with complex rheological characteristics. Results of the presented investigations may be used for planning the measures of efficient transportation of high-viscosity and heavy oils.

Deep sea solid mineral resources (SMR) of the World Ocean, such as ferromanganese nodules (FMN), cobalt-manganese crusts (CMC) and the depth polymetallic sulphides (DPS) should become an alternative source of mineral resources in the near future. Reliable and productive complexes are necessary for the implementation of deep-sea mining on an industrial scale, which will be able to develop deposit with a minimum ecosystem load. So, the main problems in technological solutions are the collection or separation of SMR at the bottom and lifting them to the surface. As a technical solution, it is proposed to use a special construction draghead device for FMN and CMC collecting and separating from the bottom. The distinctive feature of the device is a vertical axis of rotation of the drive engine and the working body, which can be represented by a faceplate or a crown, the working element with the engine are concentrically inscribed in the casing with the catcher, which enclose the loosening zone, protecting surrounding water area from the turbulent mud and separated fractions. Nodules and crusts lifting using the draghead is carried out in the form of slurry through a pipeline.

The article describes the current situation in the global uranium concentrate market, explains the reasons for the formation of an excess amount of finished goods and the subsequent decreasein prices. The authorsevaluated the prospects of using market mechanisms to improve the financial results of Russian uranium mining enterprises. The location of the main mining centers in comparison with the centers of consumption of finished goods, pricing for the products of uranium mining companies, the dynamics of price changes over the past 20 years, the influence of non-market factors on the supply of finished products are analyzed.This study led to the conclusion that the expectation of changes in the market situation is not viable in a long term. The authors outlined the direction to improve the profitability of mining enterprises by introducing technological changes aimed at reducing the cost of the final product.