A validated co-simulation of grab and moist iron ore cargo: Replicating the cohesive and stress-history dependent behaviour of bulk solids

The traditional design approach of grabs and other bulk handling equipment consists manufacturing testing physical prototypes. A novel is to use a co-simulation MultiBody Dynamics (MBD) Discrete Element Method (DEM), in which the virtual prototype new concept interacts with solids. Therefore, this study develops validates full-scale that models grabbing process cohesive stress-history dependent iron ore. First, by executing in-situ measurements during unloading vessel, grab-relevant properties cargo, such as penetration resistance, are determined. Second, experiments conducted cargo hold, allows be recorded realistic operational conditions. Third, set up using material model has been calibrated based on an elasto-plastic adhesive contact model. Fourth, validated comparing its predictions experimental data from various aspects, force cables torque winches. proves stress-dependent behaviour it grab could captured successfully. Valuable information grab’s kinematics dynamics, well porosity distribution collected solids, can extracted simulation, supporting engineers enhance operation equipment.