Physical modeling of a skip pneumatic winder

. The analytical phase of research on mine skip pneumatic winders has been passed, so the theoretical provisions have to be tested by the methods of physical modeling which is aimed at confirming the mathematical model adequacy and assessing the effectiveness of different types of sealing devices. Research methods. Physical modeling phases have been formulated, including modeling by geometric and aerodynamic similarity criteria, constructing aerodynamic characteristics of the installation, carrying out experiments with non-contacting and combined seals, and calculating the values of the installation volumetric efficiency based on the experimental data obtained. Research results. The lifting time of the skip model with different masses of material and seal types has been determined. The installation working points in the “flow rate–pressure” coordinate system have been identified, and the values of the volumetric efficiency have been calculated for each working point. Analysis of the results. A satisfactory convergence of calculated and experimental parameters of the physical model has been established. The model's volumetric efficiency has reached a technically acceptable level. The expected value of the experimental model’s volumetric efficiency has been calculated according to the similarity constants. Conclusions. The model's study revealed the convergence of the experimentally obtained volumetric efficiency of the model with its calculated values and proved the applicability of the mathematical model to experimental sample parameters calculation. The volumetric efficiency of the installation with both non-contacting and combined seals is quite high allowing to recommend the studied sealing devices for mine pneumatic winders.