Discrete numerical simulation of sheared particle flow in a vertical sandwich belt conveyor

In this study, an improved sandwich conveying numerical simulation model was used to analyse the influence of five factors on the conveying efficiency of a vertical sandwich belt conveyor. The mass flow rate of the model was verified using a test model. The results showed that the mass flow rate and shear depth increased as the belt speed increased. Additionally, the particle velocity tends to decrease with increase in depth, and increasing the pressing force increased the contact force chain. Furthermore, the contact force chain remained constant in the vertical direction. The strength of the contact force chain was maximised when the moisture content was 20–30%.