Simulation and analysis of high-pressure grinding rolls performance based on DEM-PRM

High-pressure grinding rolls (HPGR) is an energy-efficient size reduction equipment widely used in the mining industry. Simulating and analyzing its performance is of significant importance. This paper focuses on the comminution process of HPGR and simulates it using the discrete element method (DEM) and particle replacement model (PRM). Furthermore, the combination of DEM simulation and Box-Behnken designs (BBD) is employed. The effects of roll diameter, roll width, operating gap, and roll speed on HPGR performance are investigated using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and response surface methodology (RSM). A performance prediction model is established through regression analysis, and numerical optimization of performance indicators under different weight ratios is conducted. The results indicate that rolls with a high aspect ratio generally achieve better performance. In addition, the effect of feed particle size on throughput and power is negatively correlated, while the effect on product fineness is not obvious. Based on this, dynamic adjustments of the operating gap, roll speed and feed particle size can be made to meet the optimal design of HPGR performance.