Design of a Transfer Chute for Multiple Operating Conditions

Gutierrez, Alejandro; Garate, Gonzalo

doi:10.1115/imece2014-36414

Cited by 5 publications

(5 citation statements)

References 15 publications

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“…Several studies demonstrated the use of DEM in modelling a transfer chute and showcasing its capabilities, but did not present any validation of the results [1,2,[16][17][18][19][20][21][22]. Other studies compared the DEM results to those of analytical models, but not to experimental results [12,[23][24][25][26][27], while others performed industrial-scale case studies which were validated qualitatively but not quantitatively [25,[28][29][30][31][32][33].…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 98%

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Discrete Element Modelling of a Bulk Cohesive Material Discharging from a Conveyor Belt onto an Impact Plate

Scheffler,

Coetzee

2023

Minerals

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The discrete element method (DEM) has become the numerical method of choice for analysing and predicting the behaviour of granular materials in bulk handling systems. Wet-and-sticky materials (WSM) are especially problematic, resulting in build-up and blockages. Furthermore, due to the large number of particles in industrial-scale applications, it is essential to decrease the number of particles in the model by increasing their size (upscaling or coarse graining). In this study, the accuracy with which upscaled DEM particles can model the discharge of a cohesive material from a belt conveyor onto an inclined impact plate was investigated. Experimentally, three sand grades (particle size distributions, PSDs) were used, each in a dry (non-cohesive) state and with three levels of moisture-induced cohesion. The effects of the modelled PSDs on the material flow, build-up on the plate, the peak impact force and the residual weight were investigated. Although a linear cohesion contact model was mostly used, the results were also compared to that of the Johnson–Kendall–Roberts (JKR) and simplified JKR (SJKR) models. It was found that the general profile of the pile (build-up) could be accurately modelled, but using a more accurate (but still upscaled) PSD improved the results. The impact force and the residual weight on the plate could be accurately modelled (error <15%) if the particle size was not excessively scaled. The maximum acceptable scaling factor was found to be a geometric factor of the bulk measure of interest, and not a factor of the physical particle size. Furthermore, with an increase in cohesion, the bulk measures such as the thickness of the discharge stream and the height of the material build-up increased, which meant that the maximum acceptable scale factor also increased. The results are valuable for future accurate and efficient modelling of large industrial scale applications of WSMs.

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Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 98%

“…Belt conveyors are often used due to their versatility and efficiency in transporting large quantities of materials across extended distances. However, the intricate layout of industrial facilities, coupled with changes in terrain and direction, necessitates the incorporation of transfer points [1].…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Discrete Element Modelling of a Bulk Cohesive Material Discharging from a Conveyor Belt onto an Impact Plate

Scheffler,

Coetzee

2023

Minerals

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“…Some of the most important elements in the considered transportation system are retention bunkers, which are recognized as a specific, large structure, practically encountered only in this type of mining [5]. Their main task is to maintain the continuity of ore flow, minimize fluctuations associated with changes in material flow, and accumulate the ore [6]. The design of such devices has a significant impact on their operational parameters and should ensure effective, reliable, and safe operation [7].…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Optimizing Retention Bunkers in Copper Mines with Numerical Methods and Gradient Descent

Bortnowski,

Król,

Suchorab-Matuszewska

et al. 2024

Applied Sciences

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This study examines the optimization of ore receiving bins in underground copper mines, targeting the reduction of rapid wear and tear on bin components. The investigation identifies the primary wear contributors as the force exerted by the accumulated ore and the velocity at which ore particles move. By altering design and operational parameters, the objective is to decrease wear at key points such as transfer areas, thereby improving the efficiency and service life of retention bunkers. A Discrete Element Method (DEM) model of the bin was created and validated against actual mining conditions to study the impact of material flow on wear. The optimization approach used a constrained gradient descent algorithm to minimize factors like particle velocity and pressure force, while maintaining the efficiency of the bin. The findings provide valuable insights for the future design enhancements, potentially improving the operational performance of retention bunkers in the mining industry.

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“…Many previous generation industrial plants, including mines, have transfer points that were designed following a rule of thumb [7]. They often do not have detailed documentation, and after each failure, they were modified by trial and error.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Simple Design Solution for Harsh Operating Conditions: Redesign of Conveyor Transfer Station with Reverse Engineering and DEM Simulations

Doroszuk¹,

Król²,

Wajs³

2021

Energies

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This paper addresses the problem of conveyor transfer station design in harsh operating conditions, aiming to identify and eliminate a failure phenomenon which interrupts aggregate supply. The analyzed transfer station is located in a Polish granite quarry. The study employs laser scanning and reverse engineering methods to map the existing transfer station and its geometry. Next, a discrete element method (DEM) model of granite aggregate has been created and used for simulating current operating conditions. The arch formation has been identified as the main reason for breakdowns. Alternative design solutions for transfer stations were tested in DEM simulations. The most uncomplicated design for manufacturing incorporated an impact plate, and a straight chute has been selected as the best solution. The study also involved identifying areas of the new station most exposed to wear phenomena. A new transfer point was implemented in the quarry and resolved the problem of blockages.

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Design of a Transfer Chute for Multiple Operating Conditions

Cited by 5 publications

References 15 publications

Discrete Element Modelling of a Bulk Cohesive Material Discharging from a Conveyor Belt onto an Impact Plate

Discrete Element Modelling of a Bulk Cohesive Material Discharging from a Conveyor Belt onto an Impact Plate

Optimizing Retention Bunkers in Copper Mines with Numerical Methods and Gradient Descent

Simple Design Solution for Harsh Operating Conditions: Redesign of Conveyor Transfer Station with Reverse Engineering and DEM Simulations

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