MODELLING MICROWAVES IN BAUXITE

Abstract Sending microwaves through bauxite ore allows almost continuous measurement of moisture content during offload by conveyor belt from a ship. Data and results microwave analyser were brought to European Study Group with Industry at the University Limerick, over-arching question whether are accurate enough. The equipment uses linear regression against phase shifts signal attenuation infer in real time. Simple initial modelling conducted supports this use for shift data. However, that work also revealed striking puzzling differences between model We present an improved multiple reflections travelling within air above it. Our new four differential equations describe how electric fields change distance each layers. By solving these taking into account, we can accurately predict what receiving antenna will pick up. solution provides much-improved matches data analyser, indicates deleterious effects reflections. Modelled strength behaviour features highly undesirable noninvertible dependence on mixture permittivity. Practical measures might be expected reduce improve accuracy suggested based our solution. This approach anticipated extend analysis transport belts other ores, slurries, coal, grains pharmaceutical powders, especially when depth conveyed material is variable.