Vibration induced flow in hoppers: DEM 2D polygon model

A two-dimensional discrete element model (DEM) simulation of cohesive polygonal particles has been developed to assess the benefit of point source vibration to induce flow in wedge-shaped hoppers. The particle–particle interaction model used is based on a multi-contact principle. The first part of t...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Particuology 2008-12, Vol.6 (6), p.455-466
Main Authors: Fraige, Feras Y., Langston, Paul A., Matchett, Andrew J., Dodds, John
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Bulk solids
DEM
Engineering Sciences
Hoppers
Materials handling
Polygon
Vibration
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Summary:A two-dimensional discrete element model (DEM) simulation of cohesive polygonal particles has been developed to assess the benefit of point source vibration to induce flow in wedge-shaped hoppers. The particle–particle interaction model used is based on a multi-contact principle. The first part of the study investigated particle discharge under gravity without vibration to determine the critical orifice size ( B c) to just sustain flow as a function of particle shape. It is shown that polygonal-shaped particles need a larger orifice than circular particles. It is also shown that B c decreases as the number of particle vertices increases. Addition of circular particles promotes flow of polygons in a linear manner. The second part of the study showed that vibration could enhance flow, effectively reducing B c. The model demonstrated the importance of vibrator location (height), consistent with previous continuum model results, and vibration amplitude in enhancing flow.
ISSN:1674-2001
1672-2515
2210-4291
DOI:10.1016/j.partic.2008.07.019