Validation of a DEM model of screening performance

Journal article, 2021

The discrete element method (DEM) is particularly suited to modelling screening processes in the minerals processing industry, since the control and optimisation of screen processes are still limited due to a lack of their fundamental understanding and the number of different design variables and machine parameters that affect the processes. The advantage of using DEM for assessing screening performance is the possibility of visualising particle behaviour in three dimensions along with the screen media. This study shows how the DEM can be used to analyse different screen machine parameters and material properties for further development.

The effects of operational conditions and geometry on the screen performance are studied by a series of DEM simulations and experimental tests using a special laboratory screen. The simulations of screen performance are implemented over a variety of structural parameters, including screen width, aperture size, inclination angle and motion type. The results are analysed by distributions of percentage passing and other flow information, such as particle volume and velocities along the screen deck and the particle size distribution. The simulation results are useful for the development of a better understanding of the process and the control of the screen to create a predictive simulation model that can be used in dynamic process simulations of crushing and screening plants.