Numerical Modelling And Simulation Of Wet Ball Mills: A Review

Abstract

Understanding the behavior of the mill load is crucial for optimizing the efficiency of wet ball mills. Computational simulations have played a significant role in unraveling the complex dynamics of wet ball mills, offering valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms. However, the literature lacks comprehensive reviews and summaries of the advancements made in modeling wet ball mills. This paper aims to bridge this critical gap by consolidating and presenting the major theoretical developments achieved in the past two decades in modeling and simulating wet ball mills. This review aims to comprehensively examine the coupling of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Discrete Element Method (DEM) as a numerical technique for simulating wet ball milling. The primary emphasis is on studies employing computational simulation techniques to investigate wet ball milling, with a focus on understanding the intricate interplay between the mill load, grinding media, slurry, and the mill structure. Firstly, particle motion and contact force models between particles, as well as the interaction forces in multiphase systems, as part of DEM and CFD theories are reviewed.  Secondly, this paper discusses different ways of coupling CFD and DEM, including theoretical developments and applications, with a brief introduction to drag correlation models. Finally, the review highlights the main challenges currently faced by CFD-DEM and identifies exciting research topics for future studies. The study's findings illustrate the successful application of Discrete Element Method (DEM) in simulating the behavior of grinding media during wet milling. Additionally, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) techniques, such as Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH), have been utilized to model slurry behavior. Moreover, research indicates the feasibility of coupling CFD and DEM for simulating wet ball milling, although further investigation is required to enhance understanding in this area. It can be concluded that CFD-DEM is an effective method for simulating wet ball milling and offers a new perspective on understanding industrial processes and phenomena involving practical particle shapes. However, there are still aspects that require further investigation. By consolidating existing knowledge and identifying gaps in understanding, this review provides a roadmap for future research in this area.