Simulation of random tagged ore flow through the bunker in a belt conveying system

Abstract

Modelling the flow of a non-homogeneous ore is an important element needed to identify ore parameters for the purpose of ore processing control. The simulation model of the underground ore haulage system with the implemented function of estimating ore qualitative and quantitative parameters was built in the dedicated FlexSim simulation environment to address this issue. The transported ore is averaged in transfer and retention points, for instance in ore bunkers. This fact renders the modelling of ore flow inside the bunker a necessary part of the simulation. The movement of the granulated material, restricted by the geometry of the floor and walls, is modelled using Discrete Elements Method (DEM) with regard to the technological cycles of bunker filling and emptying. An experimental task was conducted on the site to identify the transport time of RFID tags that flowed together with the portions of ore they annotated. Empirical model of the transport system in the KGHM Lubin mine was parameterized with mean retention times obtained in DEM simulations in order to be compared with the RFID-tag experiment. The as-parameterized FlexSim simulation for one-chute bunker discharge variant yields tag transport times comparable with the experimental data. The results proved the reliable description of the ore transport time in the FlexSim model.