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RETRACTED ARTICLE: Numerical Simulation of Gravity Flow in Sublevel Caving Based on Polyhedron DEM
Changping Yi1,1, Daniel Johansson1, Matthias Wimmer2
1Division of Mining and Geotechnical Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, Sweden.
Particle shape significantly impacts ore gravity flow in sublevel caving (SLC) mines. Numerical modeling confirmed this, showing cumulative ore dilution by waste reached approximately 30%.
Area of Science:
- Mining Engineering
- Geomechanics
- Computational Modeling
Background:
- Gravity flow of blasted ore and caved waste in sublevel caving (SLC) is complex.
- Particle shape is a key factor influencing ore flow and dilution in SLC mines.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of particle shapes on gravity flow behavior in sublevel caving.
- To develop a numerical model simulating ore and waste flow dynamics.
Main Methods:
- Developed a code to generate polyhedral fragments of varying shapes.
- Utilized LS-DYNA for numerical modeling of SLC extraction processes.
- Modeled intermittent gravity flow using an extraction point switcher.
Main Results:
- Numerical modeling results for ore flow behavior align with experimental data.
- Simulations showed cumulative dilution of ore by waste can reach up to 30%.
- Model predictions are consistent with field survey findings.
Conclusions:
- Particle shape is a critical parameter affecting gravity flow and dilution in sublevel caving.
- Numerical modeling provides a viable method for studying complex flow dynamics in SLC.
- Understanding particle shape effects can help optimize ore recovery and minimize waste dilution.
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