Simulating Capacity and Breakage in Cone Crushers using DEM

Other conference contribution, 2010

Cone crushers are the most frequently used crusher type for hard rock materials in secondary and tertiary crushing stages in the aggregate, mineral and mining industry. Hence, knowledge about the crushing process in these machines is of great interest in order to develop and optimise the overall process. In this paper the Discrete Element Method (DEM) together with a Bonded Particle Model (BPM) are used for simulating the dynamic interaction between the rock material and the crusher. The particle flow behaviour is visualised and machine parameters are evaluated regarding their impact on process performance parameters such as capacity, flow behaviour and breakage rate. The advantages and disadvantages of using DEM with a BPM model is also investigated and compared to other strategies stated in the literature. A Sandvik CH430 Hydrocone cone crusher is chosen for the study and parameters such as close side setting, eccentric speed and chamber design are investigated. Results are compared to simulations and empirical data from previous work by Evertsson (2000) and show a good correlation regarding capacity, breakage behaviour and breakage modes.