Numerical Simulation for Optimisation of Rock Drilling and Loading for Mining

Purpose and goal

The study will show the strength of numerical modelling and simulation. The goal is to create realistic numerical models for drilling and loading of rock material. The purpose is to increase understanding of the working method regarding rock drilling and loading. The results will enable the understanding of the physical and mechanical phenomena concerning the interaction between rock material and liquid during drilling, but also the interaction between rock material and equipment during loading for future optimization of rock drilling and loading in the mining industry.

Expected results and effects

The results will increase understanding of the complex multiphysical conditions prevailing during rock drilling and loading. Enable numerical prediction of wear during drilling and loading. Improve data collection in field measurements of drilling and loading. Improved numerical models for rock drilling and loading as well as preliminary simulations of penetration speed, loading efficiency and abrasion during drilling and loading. Preliminary validation of numerical models against field measurements of drilling and loading. An important basis for a full-scale project.

Planned approach and implementation

The project is planned to combine experimental measurements in an industrial environment with advanced calculation methods. Here it is important to work on a realistic scale to build models that can handle material interaction and large flows. Two doctoral students with supervisors and staff from Boliden will work on the project. The steps are summarized according to: 1. Field measurements of drilling and loading 2. Numerical models for rock drilling and loading 3. Simulation of drilling and loading 4. Preliminary validation of numerical models against field measurements