EDEM Research Spotlight - Particle size segregation promoted by powder flow in confined space: The die filling process case
Altair Employee- RESEARCHER
- Daniel Mateo-Ortiz
- INSTITUTE
- University of Puerto Rico Mayaguez, Puerto Rico
- DEPARTMENT
- Chemical Engineering
- SUPERVISOR
- Rafael Mendez, Ph.D.
- TIMELINE
- 2011 - 2013
Using the Discrete Element Method (DEM), a standard feed frame taken from a Manesty Betapress was simulated which represents the tableting process without the compression stage. DEM was used to understand the micro-macro dynamics of the particles inside the feed frame. Segregation behavior of a single material with a particle size distribution was investigated using this method. The DEM simulation components included 2 paddle wheel speeds (24 and 72 rpm) and 2 die disk speeds (29 and 57 rpm). Results obtained have highlighted the effect of feed frames on the powder properties. The DEM results show size segregation inside the feed frame and during the die filling stage.
Fig. 1. Tablet press feed frame simulated in EDEM 
Fig. 12. Example of top to bottom segregation in a die.
Fig. 10. Feed frame front view.
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