Параметры шагающего устройства для добычи полезных ископаемых, рассредоточенных по морскому дну

Abstract

The purpose of the work is to analyze the aggregates of complexes for the extraction of marine minerals. In particular, the variants of complexes, their advantages and disadvantages are considered. The complex is analyzed, which uses robotic pickers/reclaimers of the walking type to perform mining operations of ferromanganese nodules (FMN) or cobalt-bearing manganese crusts (CMC). Results. The variants of complexes for mining of bottom deposits are analyzed, advantages and disadvantages of different variants are indicated. The device for collecting minerals on the bottom, developed in SPMU, is described, laboratory studies of the model of such a device are considered, the main parameters are presented, the dependence of productivity on the size and time of operations of the cycle of work is indicated. It is determined that for minimal impact on the seabed biota it is necessary to use walking submersibles with an actuator for extraction in the form of rarefaction chambers or a grapple with an impactor (depending on the type of solid minerals). It is shown that the productivity of the walking underwater vehicle varies with the diameter of the rarefaction chamber plates: the optimum plate diameter is 1.5 m. Experimental study of hydrodynamic resistance of “foot” models with different midships cross-section has been carried out. According to the experimental results, the conclusion about the preferred design of the “foot” was made: the cross-section should be a streamlined shape with the smallest drag coefficient cx and have a continuous surface without holes. Experimental studies of tine models movement in water have shown that it is reasonable to use as tine parts the structures without holes, streamlined ellipsoidal shape. Calculations of productivity of mining units when using rope hoisting from the bottom to the ship have shown the necessity of using four or more hoisting devices for realization of the required annual productivity of more than 1 million tons per year. The stages of creating a workable extraction unit including a vessel, vertical lifting device and a system of deep-water collectors require very significant material and monetary costs, so they should be carried out in accordance with the R&D plan and tasks of the relevant ministry and agency and require coordination of efforts of investors, scientists and machine builders.