Optimising Bucket-Wheel Reclamation Performance with DEM

Dr. Peter Wilson, Senior Mechanical Engineer at Linear Engineering presents at the 2024 ATCx DEM.

Effective optimisation of material flow during bucket-wheel reclamation has significant implications for the efficiency of a reclaiming operation. Linear Engineering used a novel modelling approach to capture the intricate dynamic effects of a slewing bucket-wheel on material flow, whilst minimising the impact on the analysis time. Available data from a similar machine at the same facility verified the conclusions drawn in this analysis and showed excellent adherence to the calibrated models. The DEM analysis guided design refinements of the bucket-wheel and tail chute, leading to reduced surge spillage, improved burden profiles, and blockage-free operation at all slew and luff angles.