Elastic–plastic constitutive model of the milled mixture of sugarcane based on phase transition state

Abstract

Extracting juice from sugarcane is a complex and nonlinear process. It is very important to comprehend mechanical properties and constitutive model of the milled mixture of sugarcane for understanding sugarcane crushing process. In this paper, mechanical properties of the milled mixture were investigated by uniaxial compression tests, repeated loading tests and direct shear tests. The elastic-plastic constitutive model was established by using isotropic elastic materials and Modified Cam-Clay model based on phase transition state. Both Poisson's ratio and Young's modulus of the milled mixture were proportional to the loading stress; the compression index and swelling index are 2.23 and 0.10, respectively; and the cohesive force and friction angle are 25.25 kPa and 21.63 , respectively. At last, the proposed constitutive model was verified by uniaxial compression tests. This paper can provide a theoretical basis for the study of mechanism and simulation of sugarcane crushing processes, and is of guidance for the improvement of sugar production process and equipment. Practical applicationsIn this article, the prepared cane and bagasse are collectively called the milled mixture of sugarcane, which includes solid fiber, juice, and air. The interaction of three components of milled mixture can lead to difficulties in extracting juice, an increase in processing energy consumption and other undesirable conditions. In this paper, the mechanical properties and constitutive model of milled mixture of sugarcane are studied. This research can provide a new method for the simulation of sugarcane milling process, and has enlightening significance for the optimization of crushing equipment and technological parameters to improve juice extraction efficiency.