Simulation of Transfer Chutes

Abstract

Transfer chute stations can be contentious points in any bulk material handling plant. In addition to proper redirection of the bulk material stream, wear and dust problems often are related to the design of the involved chutes. With high mass flow rate, the optimisation of transfer stations is especially important for belt conveyors. For these conveyors, additional problems like belt mistracking can be caused by a poorly design transfer chute. The simulation of transfer chutes offers a state-of-the-art tool to the designer to check the function of the transfer chute before it is manufactured. For the simulation, the Discrete Element Method (DEM) often complements the analytical approach as a foundation of any design process. The design process itself is always a compromise between different criteria. The chapter discusses the main relevant aspects of transfer chute design to minimise problems in practice and shows how simulations can be used to improve the design. Modelling and evaluation issues for typical transfer chute problems like the simulation of build-up; the determination of impact forces; and the prediction of belt mistracking, abrasive wear, and dust emission are presented.