BALLING DRUM DESIGN
Krech Ojard performed a feasibility study at a northern Minnesota iron ore mine to improve their taconite balling drum design. The project involved the replacement of two existing ten foot diameter drums with two twelve foot diameter drums, reworking feed and takeaway conveyors, and replacing the existing roll screens with wider, longer roll screens.
The current equipment could be difficult to maintain with limited access, so a key element of the design is to improve access to the new equipment. 3D modeling of the entire balling process was the approach taken by Krech Ojard to tackle this problem. The 3D modeling allows for previewing installed additional equipment to test allowances, connections, spacing and more.
Working with plant operations and maintenance personnel, existing plant drawings, and field measurements; a design was developed that allowed greater productivity and the new larger equipment to be placed with improved access for maintenance within the confines of the existing structure.
Work has proceeded to upgrade the facility based on the design study.
