Modeling and simulation of vertical roller mill using population balance model

There are few studies concerning the process simulation of vertical roller mills (VRMs). In this research work, the application of population balance model for simulation of a VRM in a cement clinker grinding circuit was investigated. The residence time distribution (RTD) was measured, and the tank-in-series and Weller models were employed to describe the residence time distribution. Two sampling surveys were carried out on the VRM circuit. The data from the first survey were used for model calibration, and the specific breakage rates were back-calculated. The model parameters obtained were used for simulation of the second survey, and validation of the model. The results showed that the clinker particle spent a short time inside the VRM and the mean residence time is about 67s. The tanks-in series model compares to Weller model was more proper to describe the residence time distributions in the VRM. The simulation results showed that the specific breakage rates increased with increasing particle size. However, the particles larger than 25.4 mm particles sizes are too large to be properly nipped by master rollers. Finally, it can be concluded that the grinding process of the VRM is very well-predictable with the population balance model.