Abstract: According to the situation of CHINALCO Henan Branch, combined with ore discharge mechanics theory, similarity experiment and discrete element simulation technology, we deeply research discharge mechanism and main factors that influence ore flow in hopper in both macro and micro conditions. Discrete element simulation shows the dynamic process of mutual interaction between particles-particles, particles-walls. According to the results, we design a new internal vertical flow-aiding device, achieve a better effect in field experiment. New device not only greatly improves the flow capability of ore in hopper, solves the blocking, arching, stucking problems which troubled CHINALCO for several decades, optimizes the mechanical relationship between ore and hopper, reduces wall dynamic contact pressure, but also largely improves the discharge efficiency and safety factor and reduces the labor intensity.

Key words: ore discharge mechanics theory, similarity experiment, DEM simulation, internal vertical vibration flow-aiding device