This, the 7th International Computational Modelling Symposium (Computational Modelling '19) was organised by Minerals Engineering International (MEI). Media sponsors were International Mining.

THEMES

Computational modelling is the use of fundamental physical equations to predict the behaviour of complex systems. Techniques include Discrete Element Modelling (DEM), Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Finite Element Methods (FEM). Due to rapid increases in computing power, it is now possible to carry out highly sophisticated and realistic simulations of scientific and engineering processes. Computational modelling has become an indispensable adjunct to the traditional modes of investigation via theory and experiment, and is increasingly viewed as ‘a peer methodology to experiment and theory’.

Computational modelling provides engineers with the ability to study systems in ways that are often not possible with experiments. This can be because of the difficulty in carrying out measurements within the systems, an inability to change the experimental input parameter independently or simply because of the cost involved in building an experimental system. In order to be able to use computational modelling in this way we need to have robust models that we trust and which can be solved efficiently.

Delegates at the Welcome Reception at Computational Modelling '17

In minerals engineering, the typically complex multi-phase nature of the systems makes modelling particularly challenging. This has resulted in a wide range of different techniques being applied, ranging from Computational Fluid Dynamic methods such as Finite Element, Finite Volume, Smooth Particle Hydrodynamics to particle methods such as Discrete Element Methods, as well as many others. Given the interactions that occur in minerals processing systems, an increasing area of study is in coupling different methods.

In order to have confidence in these models, they need to be verified against experimental results. This has led to a complementary development and use of more advanced measurement techniques such as various forms of tomography, particle tracking techniques such Particle Image Velocimetry and Positron Emission Particle Tracking and many others.

The aim of this conference was to bring together both users and developers of computational modelling from academia and industry to share their knowledge and expertise. This conference was aimed at the full spectrum of people involved in computational modelling in minerals processing and materials handling, from model development, validation and all the way through to application.

The specific areas included:

• Model development and computational techniques
• Modelling of minerals processing and materials handling unit operations
• Optimisation of plant and circuit operation and design
• Experimental validation including novel experimental techniques

CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Computational Modelling '19 was certified for Continuing Professional Development.