Mathematical Modeling and Computational Simulation on Ball Milling in Domestic Goldsilver Mineral Processing Plant

Abstract

In this study, mathematical modeling and computational simulation were used to predict the particle size distribution of ball mill product in domestic gold silver mineral processing plant. Particle size distribution of ball mill product was predicted using Population Balance Model based on mass balance equation. Batch grinding tests were performed, then scaled-up under grinding condition of ball mill in domestic gold silver mineral processing plant. Scaled-up results were modeled and simulated by using USIM-PAC, a commercial software for mineral processing. Both 80% passing particle size of computational simulation result and actual particle size distribution were calculated as 0.206 mm, also coefficient of determination was calculated to be 0.998. Therefore, it was confirmed to the validation of simulation. Based on these results, it is expected to predict particle size distribution of ball mill in domestic gold/silver mineral processing plant according to the change of grinding condition.