Numerical study of particle conveying mechanism in high-inclination scraper conveyor based on the discrete element method

• Conveying mechanisms of high-inclination scraper conveyors were explored using DEM. • Conveying performance of the conveyor at different conveying speeds was discussed. • Rheological properties of particles in the bend conveying section were investigated. • Competition between kinetic and potential of particles was quantified using Fr . High-inclination conveying conditions further deteriorate the conveying performance of the particles in the scraper conveyor and limit the efficiency and economy of the overall production process. Understanding the mechanism of particle conveying is critical to achieving the desired scraper conveying performance, yet the mechanisms involved remain poorly understood. In this work, the mechanism of particle conveying in a high-inclination scraper conveyor was investigated by the discrete element method after verifying the accuracy of the model. The results showed that in the bend conveying section, the particles captured by the scraper swept zone decrease with increasing conveying speed. In the flat conveying section, the scraper swept zone mainly captures particles at the end of the particle band. The conveying behaviour of particles in the bend conveying section is determined by the rheological properties of the particles, while in the flat conveying section it is governed by the competition between kinetic and potential energy of the particles. This study should be useful for the design of scraper conveyor and similar equipment, as well as for related studies on particle conveying dynamics. Conveying mechanisms for highly flowable particles in high-inclination scraper conveyors.