Last modified: 19. 05. 2025
Abstract
One of the research directions in crushing mechanics (crushing and grinding) is modeling machine processes. This paper presents a methodology for modeling brittle materials using the DEM concept. Sample simulations were performed using ADAMS/View software. The idea of modeling and simulating mechanical crushing processes is to treat the crushing process as a sequence of three consecutive or simultaneous processes. These are crushing, selection, and classification, which appropriate functions must describe. Probability determines selection, which predicts that a feed grain of size D will be crushed in a given crusher chamber (its working space) during a working cycle. The classification function provides information about the transport of grains and is determined by the probability of crushed grains moving from a given area of the working chamber. The crushing function provides details on dividing feed grains into smaller particles. The main problem in modeling machine processes is, therefore, to identify the relationship between the feed grain size distribution curve, the product grain size distribution curve, the strength properties of the crushed material, the process efficiency, and the energy consumption. The paper presents a concept of grain breaking and movement history for successive work cycles (eccentric shaft revolutions) of a double-ram jaw crusher. The ball model used is characterized by continuous grain flow. In this model, irregular solids resulting from ball breaking (feed) are replaced by substitute balls. Despite a number of simplifications, the crushing process simulation presented in this paper allows for a good estimation of the crushing process parameters and the drive power of the crushers. Due to its simple calculation procedures, it can be successfully used in engineering practice.