Efficient sand throwing with digital power: optimization of the NG-Green multifunctional tiller

Using state-of-the-art simulation technology, the Linz Center of Mechatronics (LCM) has worked with NG Green to further develop the ejection chute of the patented multifunctional milling machine. The aim was to significantly improve the throwing distance and focusing of the sand-air mixture for use in desert regions. Coupled CFD-DEM simulations made it possible to visualize flow losses, test variants and derive specific recommendations – such as an adapted geometry, guide plates and larger radii. The result: an optimized material discharge that loads transport vehicles more precisely and deposits the desert sand at a greater distance.

Simulated blast wheel — Simulation of the patented blast wheel
in use using the
software developed by LCM: HOTINT

Spin wheel with various spin point settings — Different fireplace variants

Fireplace variants — Spin wheel with various spin
point settings

Initial situation & requirements

Versatile multifunctional tiller for a wide range of materials, e.g. wood chips, grain, snow or sand.
Optimization of the discharge chute for use in desert countries in order to direct the discharge more precisely onto transport vehicles.
Increase the throwing range so that desert sand can be reliably deposited at a sufficient distance.

Technology & results

Coupled CFD-DEM simulation of the sand-air mixture in the existing chimney → showed that the current chimney causes high deflection losses and the discharge diverges strongly.
Analysis of several solution approaches by simulating different variants.
Concrete optimization recommendations: nozzle-like tapering, installation of baffles and increasing the radius.