Numerical simulation of brittle rock loosening during mining process

In this paper, the results of the finite elements method simulations of loosening of rock by special design ripping head [F. Eichbaum, Schneidend- brechende Gewinnung mit der Schneidscheibe. Experimentell und theoretische Untersuchungen. Gluckauf- Betriebsbucher, Band 22, Verlag Gluckauf GMBH Essen, 1980] have been presented. The influence of friction factor rock and ripping tool on trajectory of loosing of rock has been investigated. It is important to obtain wide range loosing of rock in mining technology. This makes getting a thick excavated material possible and guarantees more energy-saving excavating process.The results show that increase of friction angle results in growth of crack propagation range, so loosing rock pieces are bigger. Numerical studies were carried out for an angle varying from 0° to 24°. Calculations done using finite elements method determine mechanical conditions necessary for optimization and improvement of experimental head for future research. In crack propagation analysis, loosing element method and Podgórski’s plasticity condition were utilized [J. Podgórski, Journal of Mining Science 38 (4) (2002) 374–380, July; J. Podgórski, Journal of Engineering Mechanics 111 (2) (1985) 188–201] .