Theoretical Modeling and Geometric Optimization of Flat Sieves for Grain Mixture Separation
- Posted
- Server
- Preprints.org
- DOI
- 10.20944/preprints202505.1549.v1
The separation of grain mixtures using flat mechanical sieves is a probabilistic process highly dependent on the geometric parameters of the separator. This study investigates the relationship between the length-based separation coefficient (μх) and the area-based separation coefficient (μxy), emphasizing the critical role of the sieve’s shape and working area. Through theoretical modeling, we demonstrate that the separation process follows an exponential decay pattern along the sieve length, while the overall efficiency is determined by the total sieving area. For sieves with equal diagonals, the square-shaped sieve maximizes the working area (at β= π/2) and minimizes grain losses, achieving optimal separation performance. The area-based coefficient μxy remains constant under fixed diagonal conditions, whereas μₓ varies with the length (x), as proven by the derived dependency μ(x)e=μ(xy)e.1+tg2(αe). Experimental similarity criteria (π₁, π₂) confirm that grain losses are identical when comparing rectangular and square sieves with equal diagonals, but the square sieve offers higher sieving probability per unit area. The study proposes a geometric optimization framework for flat sieves, recommending square configurations with dimensions derived from the equivalence μ(x)0.x0=μ(xy)e.re. These results provide a theoretical foundation for designing high-efficiency separators, though experimental validation is suggested for future work.