Development of Simulation Capability and Advanced Process Models for Rock Material, Ore, and Mineral Production

Research Project, 2013 – 2017

The project aims to increase knowledge of how production processes for aggregates, minerals and mining industry works and how productivity and final product quality can be improved. This knowledge can be used for design and layout of greenfield crushing plants as well as the optimization of existing processes. Proposed solutions for both novel processes and individual machines can be simulated. The goal is to develop an effective methodology and a platform for modelling and simulation that takes the time-dynamic variations and behaviours into account. A platform for simulation of crushing and comminution plants for production of aggregates, ores (sifting) and minerals in Matlab / Simulink. An extensive range of model libraries for aggregates, individual machines, production units and control systems as well as examples of pre-defined systems and processes of various types are included in the platform. The expected impact of the project is to increase productivity through increased resource utilization, decreased energy consumption, increased process yield and less waste. The total cost savings are estimated to 10-20%.