DEM Simulation of the Jaw Crusher with Complex Motion Jaws

"The aim of this paper is to study the numerical modeling of the crushing process in a jaw crusher with complex motion jaws using Discrete Element Method (DEM). The main goals are to ensure the conformity of numerical simulation results to the experimental data, optimize the operating modes and the crusher design and develop automated verification and calibration methodology. It is offered to use automated selection of mathematical model parameters using large- or laboratory-scale experiments instead of deriving parameters from conventional intensive material tests (e.g. drop-weight test). Experimental data were obtained from a large-scale crusher designed and manufactured by the company “Mekhanobr-Tekhnika”. Both jaws have their drive shafts located asymmetrically; one jaw is driven in the upper part, the second at the base. The crushing process involves fragmentation of single smoothed rectangular granite particles of the same weight. During the experiment, the required parameters such as particle size distribution were obtained for further computer simulations. Based on the obtained experimental data, the Rocky DEM model was built. Simulation breakage parameters were calibrated using automated parameter selection methodology based on multiple set of parameter-controlled simulations. A good correlation of the experimental data and numerical simulation data was obtained. The methodology in combination with well-known capabilities of simulation modeling will help reduce the research time in the development of new mineral processing equipment.INTRODUCTION Preparation of rock mass for enrichment includes the power-consuming processes of crushing and grinding. Initial rock mass crushing is performed by means of drilling and blasting operations. To reduce the average size of a rock piece, primary crushers, mostly jaw crushers, are further applied. The advantages of the jaw crusher are simple design, easy maintenance and repair. One of the drawbacks is large oscillating masses and, thus, high power consumption during operation (55 - 200 kW). Jaw crushing simulation will help optimize the crushing process and improve further rock transportation and processing performance."