A continuum based numerical modelling approach for the simulation of WHIMS

Detecting the built-up of magnetic material is crucial to the continuous operation of the separation process. In this study we present a numerical modelling approach for wet high intensity magnetic separation. The electro-magnetic and the fluid flow field are modelled with the finite element method, while the material particles are identified and evolved using the Level-set approach. Such a framework retains the influence of magnetic particles on the surrounding magnetic field and can be used to detect and predict material build-up in the matrix. The model is validated with a benchmark example and the potential of the approach is demonstrated using a simplified magnetic separation matrix example.