Multi-objective optimization model of a dry-aggregate crushing plant

Thesis (Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering) -- University of Rizal System-Morong.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: As we cross the threshold of the 21st century's second decade, the inherent necessity for construction materials would be immensely needed for mankind keeps in deep to construct further infrastructures, super highways, megacities and housing projects to provide shelter, ways of living and means of transport for its swarming inhabitants. The need to have a reliable production plant is vital in contributing in the needs of construction materials specifically aggregate. In line with the demand in the production of aggregates, its ecological impact such as dust emissions which can affect the climate, human health, vegetation and damage the equipment is necessary to be diminished. An aggregate crushing plant is utilized in manufacturing crushed stone of various sizes which acts as raw material for various construction activities. The system is consisting of a combination of unit operations of storing, feeding, crushing, screening, and conveying. The study specifically intends to formulate a mathematical model that will establish the optimum configuration of a mechanical system design of an aggregate plant that will yield the maximum reliability with minimum impact in the environment under predefined set of economic constraint. Optimum values of objectives were obtained by using the Exhaustive Grid Search Algorithm. From 33.82% reliability of a reference plant in Rizal, the authors improved it up to 92.67% but its corresponding impact in the environment also arises. The environmental impact ranges from 1.63E-01 to 2.5E-01 m3 per person-year. With a given economical and process constraints, the optimum values and objectives were presented in the study. The study utilized a mathematical model and algorithm using Microsoft excel 2007 and its visual basic application to design the configuration. It has also become possible for the researchers to analyze different circumstances and factors that can affect to the performance of an aggregate crushing plant. The specific details of the study were briefly presented in the depths of each chapter.