Benetech is implementing a perpetual license for the use of DEM Solutions' EDEM modelling software.
After looking at ways to enhance its bulk material handling, Benetech will be using EDEM in the design, troubleshooting, and optimisation of transfer chutes, conveyors, and other coal handling equipment.
Benetech has used DEM modelling for years in the design of its advanced engineered transfer chutes. As Benetech's business expanded, it became clear that they required a better DEM software tool - both faster and with features making it more applicable to a wider range of materials and tonnages.
They started evaluating EDEM as a possible replacement. In an in-house comparison, Benetech found that EDEM ran identical scenarios in much less time than their existing tool. EDEM also offered more sophisticated modelling, including much higher particle counts, wide distributions in particle size, non-spherical particles, cohesion, and other advanced modelling features.
'We've been convinced of the value of DEM simulation for chute design for years, but had outgrown our existing DEM software,' said Matt Clarke, engineering manager at Benetech.
Clarke added: 'We benchmarked EDEM ourselves, comparing it apples-to-apples against our existing DEM tool, and discovered it ran 80 times faster on the same hardware. The greater sophistication of the EDEM software will allow us to create far more accurate models, yet complete them in a fraction of the time we used to spend. We believe that EDEM will also allow us to expand our projects and products to handle a wider range of materials and tonnages with greater confidence. My engineers are very happy we are making this change.'
