In the heart of Ukraine, a groundbreaking study is reshaping how we understand and optimize energy use in the extraction and processing of non-metallic raw materials. Led by О.О. Аnisimov from the National Technical University “Dnipro Polytechnic,” this research delves into the energy-intensive world of mining and processing, offering insights that could revolutionize the industry’s approach to energy efficiency.
Non-metallic material extraction and processing enterprises are notorious for their high energy consumption. Аnisimov’s research, published in the journal Технічна інженерія, which translates to Technical Engineering, applies the energy method to quantify various factors influencing these processes. This method involves determining the indicator of technological energy absorption, a crucial step in assessing the energy performance of mining and transportation complexes, as well as the equipment used in processing construction raw materials.
The study focuses on the most common non-metallic materials in Ukraine’s central, southern, and eastern regions, including quartzites, granites, diorites, migmatites, plagiogranites, and sedimentary rocks like limestones. By analyzing energy absorption indicators in mineral processing operations such as crushing, transportation, and screening, Аnisimov and his team have uncovered valuable insights.
One of the key findings is the significant impact of compressive strength on energy absorption during rock mass crushing. “The compressive strength of the medium is a pivotal factor,” Аnisimov explains. “It greatly influences the equipment complex and the distribution of energy indicators.” This discovery could lead to more efficient equipment design and operational strategies, reducing energy consumption and costs.
The research also reveals that the screening process has the least impact on energy absorption across all enterprises studied. Conversely, the chipping process consumes the most energy. These findings suggest that optimizing the chipping process could yield substantial energy savings.
The study’s implications are far-reaching. By understanding and optimizing energy absorption in these processes, mining enterprises can reduce their energy consumption, lower operational costs, and decrease their environmental footprint. This is particularly relevant in today’s energy-conscious world, where sustainability is no longer just a buzzword but a business imperative.
As Аnisimov puts it, “Establishing energy indicators in non-metallic material processing is not just about efficiency; it’s about sustainability and competitiveness in the global market.”
The research, conducted across deposits in Dnipropetrovsk, Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk, Odesa, and Poltava regions, provides a comprehensive view of energy absorption in mineral processing operations. It sets the stage for future developments in the field, paving the way for more energy-efficient and sustainable mining practices.
For the energy sector, this research opens up new avenues for collaboration and innovation. Energy providers can work with mining enterprises to develop tailored energy solutions, while equipment manufacturers can design more energy-efficient machinery. The potential for commercial impact is immense, with energy savings translating into cost savings and increased profitability.
As we look to the future, Аnisimov’s research serves as a beacon, guiding the industry towards a more energy-efficient and sustainable horizon. The insights gained from this study could shape the future of non-metallic material processing, not just in Ukraine, but globally. The journey towards energy efficiency in mining has just begun, and the road ahead is paved with promise and potential.
