Feeder Type Optimisation for the Plain Flow Discharge Process of an Underground Hopper by Discrete Element Modelling

Abstract

This paper describes optimisation of a conveyor from an underground hopper intended for a coal transfer station. The original solution was designed with a chain conveyor encountered operational problems that have limited its continuous operation. The Discrete Element Modeling (DEM) was chosen to optimise the transport. DEM simulations allow device design modifications directly in the 3D CAD model, and then the simulation makes it possible to evaluate whether the adjustment was successful. By simulating the initial state of coal extraction using a chain conveyor, trouble spots were identified that caused operational failures. The main problem has been the increased resistance during removal of material from the underground hopper. Revealed resistances against material movement were not considered in the original design at all. In the next step, structural modifications of problematic nodes were made. For example, the following changes have been made: reduction of storage space or installation of passive elements into the interior of the underground hopper. These modifications made were not effective enough, so the type of the conveyor was changed from a drag chain conveyor to a belt conveyor. The simulation of the material extraction using a belt conveyor showed a significant reduction in resistance parameters while maintaining the required transport performance.

The Use of Dem Simulation for Confirming the Process of Particulate Material Mixing

“…B. Yu and J. Bridgwater attempted [11] to verify, with the use of the DEM method, the studies of D. F. Bagster and J. Bridgwater. On the basis of the dimensional analysis of the horizontal force acting on a blade during the mixing of a particulate material, they searched for the influence of dimensionless parameters on the mixing process described in (1). The results of the usage of DEM simulations were fundamental studies on the understanding of the behaviour of round particles during the mixing with a flat blade.…”

“…Research in this area is progressing quite slowly. Studies dealing with the effects of the forces acting during the process of mixing appear only sporadically and the majority of them focuses on the kinetics of mixing and computer simulations without any verification by experiments [1,2].…”

Analysis and Optimization of Material Flow inside the System of Rotary Coolers and Intake Pipeline via Discrete Element Method Modelling

“…In the pharmaceutical and chemical industry, material segregation or inappropriate distribution of the active substance may occur during processing. In all these industries, DEM can provide significant information for problem-solving [24]. The study of bulk materials can be carried out either as a continuum or as a particle conglomerate.…”