Research on Coarse-Grained Discrete Element Model and Optimization for Fine Particles

Optimization is important for the performance improvement of mechanical equipment. To advance this approach, a coarse-grained model for the discrete element method (DEM) is proposed with consideration of mechanical structure. This study identified a coarse-grained model that can be used in particle simulation, and designed a mixing equipment model, which was further optimized through combination with the coarse-grained model. The optimization and characteristics of a stirred mill were investigated. The novelty of this study is that the coarse-grained model was used for equipment optimization. Different results were obtained for different model structures. Concentration is related to the model. The average collision energy was obtained from media-to-wall or particle-to-wall collisions. The largest number of collisions that cause different string performance in different models was obtained. The optimized model had the largest average collision energy. The characteristics of different models combined with the coarse-grained model were determined, and useful results regarding the collision energy were obtained for future performance considerations. In summary, a suitable model was established and combined with an appropriate coarse-grained model to achieve performance improvement.