In the heart of China’s capital, researchers at the University of Science and Technology Beijing have developed a groundbreaking method to revolutionize the way we monitor and optimize paste mixing in Cemented Paste Backfilling (CPB) processes. Led by Xiaorui Li, the team has created a data-driven, non-contact system that could significantly enhance the efficiency and reliability of backfilling operations, particularly in the energy sector.
Paste mixing is a critical step in CPB, a process widely used in mining and energy industries to fill voids created by excavation. The homogeneity of the paste mixture directly impacts the strength and flowability of the backfill, which in turn affects the stability of underground structures and the overall safety of operations. However, traditional methods of monitoring paste homogeneity have been notoriously inefficient, often relying on subjective assessments and lacking real-time capabilities.
Li and his team have addressed this challenge head-on by developing a vision-based identification method that can quantify paste homogeneity in real-time. “Our system captures images of the mixer tail and uses semantic image segmentation to detect non-paste and non-homogeneous areas,” Li explains. “By defining a non-homogeneity factor as the proportion of these areas to the total paste area, we can provide engineers with a quantitative metric to optimize the mixing process.”
The system employs Gaussian process regression to predict the probability of the non-homogeneity factor, offering a level of precision and reliability that was previously unattainable. This innovation is not just about improving the mixing process; it’s about transforming the way engineers approach CPB operations. “With real-time monitoring, engineers can make data-driven decisions, reducing the risk of pipeline blockages and enhancing the overall strength of the backfill,” Li adds.
The implications for the energy sector are profound. In underground mining and energy extraction, the stability of backfilled areas is paramount. A more homogeneous paste mixture means stronger backfill, which translates to safer operations and reduced maintenance costs. Moreover, the ability to monitor and adjust the mixing process in real-time can lead to significant time and resource savings, boosting overall operational efficiency.
The research, published in ‘Developments in the Built Environment’, marks a significant step forward in the field of CPB. As the energy sector continues to evolve, driven by the need for safer, more efficient operations, innovations like this will play a crucial role. By providing a quantitative, real-time method for evaluating paste homogeneity, Li and his team have opened the door to a new era of precision and reliability in backfilling operations. This could shape future developments in the field, encouraging further advancements in automation and data-driven decision-making. The energy sector stands to benefit immensely from this breakthrough, paving the way for more sustainable and efficient practices in the years to come.
