Cross Flow Turbine to Reduce Size Segregation Effects in Storage Processes

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

In many applications a constant particle size distribution is desired. Various effects lead to size segregation during storage processes. Especially during bunker filling segregation effects are noticed, which are further intensified by possible core flow effects. In this work discrete element simulations were performed to analyze a bunker used for storage of blast furnace sinter, which is filled with a discharging belt conveyor, whereby significant segregation effects are noticed. Several devices including solid state material turbines to reduce segregation during bunker filling were evaluated using DEM. A cross flow turbine is presented, which is proven to significantly reduce segregation effects during bunker filling. The results show a more evenly distributed bunker outflow in terms of particle size. Because sinter is a very abrasive material, the expected wear at the turbine was also estimated with DEM. As the turbine could also be used for energy recovery in other applications, the power output was also investigated. Additionally, the particle breakage due to the cross flow turbine is evaluated in this case. Therefore, a newly developed breakage model for DEM is used. The model is based on a probabilistic particle replacement with voronoi-tessellated fragments. The validated breakage model allows high accuracy in prediction of fragment size distribution. Fragments are further breakable, which allows simulation of processes with several damaging effects. The breakage model was calibrated with a specially developed single particle impact tester for rapid analysis of breakage characteristics of bulk materials.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of ICBMH2023 - The 14th International Conference on Bulk Materials Storage, Handling and Transportation
Number of pages10
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jul 2023
EventICBMH2023 - The 14th International Conference on Bulk Materials Storage, Handling and Transportation - Wollongong, Australia
Duration: 11 Jul 202313 Jul 2023

Conference

ConferenceICBMH2023 - The 14th International Conference on Bulk Materials Storage, Handling and Transportation
Country/TerritoryAustralia
CityWollongong
Period11/07/2313/07/23