:: ABB Announces Optimize IT Expert Optimizer for Comminution Process Optimization

ABB, the industry’s leading power and automation technology group, is pleased to announce the launch of the ABB OptimizeIT Expert Optimizer for comminution process optimization.

Comminution (crushing and grinding) is one of the most important steps in extracting minerals from ores. Optimal design of comminution plants for both product consistent quality and energy efficiency is crucial for the minerals plant’s performance. As part of a program to help our partners in the minerals industry, ABB has enhanced Optimize IT Expert Optimizer capabilities as the automatic control system for comminution process optimization. Building on ABB's extensive process knowledge, Optimize IT Expert Optimizer control strategy keeps an adequate grain size distribution inside the comminution circuit and guarantees an optimal balance between the inflow of coarse material and the outflow of product. These goals are achieved by joining multivariable control, fuzzy logic, and neural networks techniques in a comprehensive modus operandus. When in action, Optimize IT Expert Optimizer strategy resembles the actions of an experienced operator that always acts fast, consistently and tirelessly.

The following benefits have been recorded in mills controlled by Optimize IT Expert Optimizer.

Lower specific energy consumption:
By continually monitoring the loading of the mill and the balance of the material flows through the system, it is possible to identify situations when the feed to the mill and the output can be increased while the product quality remains in the specified bandwidth. Lower specific power consumption is automatically achieved.

Consistent quality:
The continual monitoring of the mill loading and adjustment of the feed and dilution water results in reduced variations in product grain size. The control strategy is designed to respond to disturbances in the process but still achieve quality consistency, eliminating both over and undersize product.

Stable material flow:
By continuously introducing small changes in the process inputs, as opposed to fewer, but larger ones, more smooth and stable material flow is achieved. The result is better product quality, less plant downtime, and longer equipment life.

Additionally, reduced consumption of grinding media is to be expected.