Simulação e otimização de processo de moagem industrial através do modelo do balanço populacional

Abstract

Comminution is a critical stage in mineral processing, and small increments in its efficiency can generate significant gains, given its high complexity and cost. In this context, the population balance model (PBM) has been widely used by researchers to optimize continuous grinding processes. Mass balances and steady-state and dynamic simulations were developed, with breakage and classification parameters obtained through sampling conducted in the gold ore grinding circuit and discontinuous laboratory-scale tests. Additionally, the Monte Carlo method was applied to generate random variables over time and simulate and optimize the grinding circuit with different operational parameters. Simulation results indicate that it is possible to achieve a 7.7% capacity increase by simply changing the process variables of the studied grinding circuit, without the need for additional investments in equipment acquisition and modification.