Shape Parameter Optimization of Bead Mills Using Interface Capturing Wear Model

Abstract

Recent advances in bead mill design have been achieved through optimization using the Discrete Element Method (DEM). This is because the impact energy of beads calculated by DEM is well correlated with the actual grinding performance of bead mills. However, wear is inevitable in bead mills, leading to a decline in grinding performance and making it difficult to maintain the effectiveness of the optimized shape over time. In this study, we propose a shape optimization system that accounts for wear. The proposed system integrates the Design of Experiments (DOE) for analyzing shape parameters and the Interface Capturing Wear Model (ICWM) for accurate and robust wear simulation. The effectiveness of optimized bead mill is validated through comparison with actual grinding experiments.