Pellet Size Estimation Using Spherical Fitting

Evaluation of spherical fitting as a technique for sizing iron ore pellets is performed. Size measurement of pellet in industry is usually performed by manual sampling and sieving techniques. Automatic on-line analysis of pellet size would allow non-invasive, frequent and consistent measurement. Previous work has used an assumption that pellets are spherical to estimate pellet sizes. In this research we use a 3D laser camera system in a laboratory environment to capture 3D surface data of pellets and steel balls. Validation of the 3D data against a spherical model has been performed and demonstrates that pellets are not spherical and have physical structures that a spherical model cannot capture.