Portfólio - Análises pelo Método dos Elementos Discretos (DEM)

Analysis using the Discrete Element Method (DEM)

Kot Engineering uses the Discrete Element Method (DEM) to analyze granular material flows in conveyors, transfer chutes, silos, truck or excavator unloads, flow diverters and mills.

By numerically simulating the material flow, it is possible to identify various phenomena that can cause problems in the process, such as structural faults, heavy wear on wear plates or conveyor belts, clogging of chutes, excessive dust, excessive speed, material loss and decentralized dumping. After analysis, it is possible to propose structural modifications to mitigate these problems.

The main benefits of this simulation are

Prediction of particle flow through the structure considering collisions with each other and with existing surfaces (chutes, belt, diverters, wear plates, etc.);
It allows precise adjustment of the position of the belts, impact plates and other chute accessories in order to optimize the flow as required;
It considerably increases the service life of belts, as it reduces wear at the feed points.

For this purpose, Rocky and EDEM software can be used, in which the three-dimensional model is adapted and the material is calibrated after characterization. In some situations, DEM is combined with CFD to solve, for example, air flow problems and the generation of turbulence zones in the transfer system.