DEM-based modelling framework for spray-dried powders in ceramic tiles industry. Part III: Validation procedure

This is the third and final paper in a series presenting a DEM-based modelling framework for simulating the spray-dried powder rheology in ceramic tiles industry. Part I described the characterization of the spray-dried powder. Part II detailed the implementation of a new dedicated solver for simulating demanding scenarios. In this part, the validation procedure of the framework is presented through 2 validation series: a partial mould filling and a complete mould filling equivalent to industrial filling. A pilot-scale powder feeder was built expressly for this purpose. Powder dynamics was accurately reproduced in series 1, with a maximum relative error of 10%. Surface density in the mould was adequately reproduced in series 2 (maximum absolute error < 4 kg/m(2)). The formation of defects is accurately predicted. Some discrepancies in the surface density values are observed. The DEM-based modelling framework proves as a valid tool to design and optimize spray-dried powder handling equipment. (C) 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This paper presents a DEM-based modelling framework for simulating the spray-dried powder rheology in the ceramic tiles industry. Through validation, the framework is proven to be an effective tool for designing and optimizing spray-dried powder handling equipment.