Discrete numerical simulation of performance analysis of horizontal trough-free screw conveyor in dynamic equilibrium state

Abstract

A horizontal trough–free screw conveyor can be employed to achieve the directional flow of materials on a free surface, and the material flow is complex under different operating parameters. A Discrete Element Method model was developed to study the effects of three operating parameters on the screw performance and material flow characteristics in the dynamic equilibrium state. The mass flow rate increased linearly proportional to the lowering depth, but the relationship with the translational velocity was nonlinear. The effective conveying rate decreased after the materials were thrown back over the top of the shaft. Mass of each material group was defined as a function of group 1, and the mass increase factor was quantitively calculated. The increase in the rotational velocity had insignificant effect on the increase in conveying capacity. When the velocity exceeded 360 r/min, the torque and power suddenly increased, but the mass flow rate remained largely unchanged.