Applications of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Tools for Gravity Concentrators in Coal Preparation

Extensive progress has been made in using CFD tool in the simulation of multiphase flows in some gravity concentrators. Several case studies for calculation of multiphase flows by different numerical models in spiral, dense medium cyclone, water only cyclones, hindered-settling bed separator, heavy medium vessel and jig are reviewed. The Euler-Lagrange approach in calculation of the particle movement and particle-liquid coupling effect are also discussed. The limitation of Euler-Euler models in the treatment of the particles with a size distribution, and disadvantages of discrete element method (DEM) in description of the jigging processes will be presented. The successful two-dimensional simulation of the hindered-settling bed separator, heavy medium vessel and jig by Euler-Lagrange approach is also addressed.