The effect of peak acceleration and particle size on water transfer in unsaturated coal and iron ore during vibration

Abstract

Abstract It is a common phenomenon that water transfers in unsaturated coal and iron ore, particularly during experiencing vibrations with low peak acceleration, such as during transport by conveyors or ships. Therefore, understanding the dynamic water transfer during the vibration helps improve the processing and equipment of the materials. This work focused on the basic sinusoidal vibration. The experimental research was conducted from two aspects: different peak accelerations and size groups on coal and iron ore. The effect of the peak acceleration and particle size on water transfer was analysed through analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results demonstrated that the fine particles have obvious different behaviours under vibration comparing with coarse particles and peak acceleration can change the water transferring trend from downward to upward. A fuzzy logic model was also developed to tell the water transferring trend and its predictions were in accordance with the effects found in experiments.