For the processing of polymetallic complex ores within the framework of the AFK joint project, the pilot plant in the quarry of the Institute of Mineral Processing Machines (IAM) will receive two new bulk material boxes this week. The test materials used for the project come from the Tellerhäuser and Hämmerlein deposits in the Western Ore Mountains. With the help of the two boxes, the complex ores can be stored in a dry and space-saving way and are easier to pick up with the wheel loader to operate the processing machines.

The bulk material boxes are assembled from several concrete blocks, which were already delivered to the quarry yesterday. We will report on the gradual construction of the boxes on our blog in the upcoming days! Subscribe to our RSS feed to stay current 😉

Lightweight construction is a key technology in modern vehicle engineering. The deployment of innovative materials and the development of new production technologies allow for the realization of ever more functional structural components. However, possible weight savings are often offset by economic and environmental overhead in manufacturing and recycling.

Only a realistic estimation of costs and benefits through a holistic view of all cycle phases from the production of semi-finished products to the usage of vehicles to the recycling of the residual material by means of a comprehensive life cycle assessment leads to a proper evaluation of economically and ecologically sensible solutions. To this end, a broad coalition of research institutions, automotive suppliers and manufacturers has adopted a joint position paper on the topic of “The Importance of a Holistic Life Cycle Engineering for Automotive Lightweight Construction” (in German).

Here’s a detailed report on life cycle engineering (in German).

The several week long study visit of Sarah Schulz has come to an end. Starting on 11 June 2018, the mechanical engineering student from the Ohio State University has been working on a variety of research topics at the Institute of Mineral Processing Machines (IAM). Among other things, she has determined the rebound resilience of different glass spheres using high-speed recordings, and has taken part in a student internship at our pilot plant in a nearby quarry.

Shortly before completing her stay at the TU Bergakademie Freiberg, Sarah reflects on her time at our institute as follows: Continue reading “DAAD scholarship holder from the Ohio State University at the Institute of Mineral Processing Machines”

From the inventory of the quarry, a screening machine (circular vibratory screen), that had previously been used for the classification of gravel, has been made available to the Institute of Mineral Processing Machines (IAM).

The additional machine significantly increases the research possibilities in the pilot plant. The coarsely crushed material coming from the different crushers can now be directly classified on site. That, for instance, allows for a closed-loop circulation to control the particle size distribution of the crushed product.