Discrete element modeling of bulk solid active and passive stress states on a belt conveyor test rig

This paper presents an investigation of active and passive stress states induced in bulk solid materials due to the transverse opening and closing of the conveyor belt. Measurements were conducted on an experimental belt conveyor simulation test rig incorporating a TekScan pressure pad measuring system. The process was modeled and examined with Discrete Element Modeling (DEM) simulations and results are compared to experimental results and existing theory.