Application of Breakage Models to Particle Speeds Simulated by Discrete Element Methods

Abstract

Simulations that calculate the breakage of a given material allow for estimating the particle size produced by comminution equipment. However, conducting these simulations requires a significant amount of time and incurs high computational costs due to the progressive increase in the number of particles during the breakage events. This challenge has prompted the exploration of alternatives, such as employing impact energies present in simulations with solid particles. This study examines the application of two breakage models to particle speeds, analyzing the correlation between the t10 value obtained from simulations using solid particles and the value obtained when simulations include breakage. The findings reveal a linear relationship between the results obtained from simulations with breakage and those with solid particles for a rotor that primarily impacts particles during their initial collisions. This relationship holds true for variations in rotor RPM as well as fluctuations in feed flow.