Signature Series - Dr Eric Fimbinger, Chair of Mineral Processing, Technical University of Leoben (Austria)

Abstract
Digitalisation is transforming how equipment and processes in the raw materials sector are designed, tested, and optimised. The Discrete Element Method (DEM) has become a key tool for simulating systems of bulk solids – enabling virtual engineering and virtual prototyping in mineral processing. This lecture introduces the principles of the DEM and demonstrates how advanced, multiphysics-based approaches can capture complex bulk behaviour in processes such as screening and crushing. From virtual rocks to real insights, the DEM is driving the next generation of efficient and innovative process design.

Biography

Dr Eric Fimbinger is a Senior Scientist in Numerical Particle Engineering at the Chair of Mineral Processing, Montanuniversität Leoben / Technical University of Leoben, Austria, and currently a Visiting Academic at the University of Newcastle’s Centre for Bulk Solids and Particulate Technologies. With a background in mechanical engineering for heavy equipment and mining, his work bridges engineering design and development with particle-based simulation technologies. He leads digitalisation initiatives at his Chair and focuses on industry-oriented R&D in the raw-materials sector using applied digital methods such as DEM-based multiphysics simulation. His research aims to advance virtual engineering and digital tools for more efficient, data-informed bulk solids processing.