Mathematical representation of snow transport

• Main Authors: Polanco Geanette, Xu, Yizhong, Mohamad, Mustafa
• Format: Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Subjects: Computer simulation; Differential equations; Mass balance; Mathematical analysis; Mathematical models; Numerical methods; Offshore drilling rigs; Offshore platforms; Representations; Snow; Transport; Windshields
• ISSN: 0094-243X; 1551-7616
• DOI: 10.1063/1.4904654

The model of snow transport is based on the resolution of a set of governing equations which are a differential mass balance equation, momentum balance equation and energy balance equation for the air as well as for the snow. The interaction between the snow and the air must also be included in this set of equations. The complete set is a complex system that will need a closure relation to be solved in order to reproduce the real situation in the best possible way. Mathematical structure of this system is far too complicated even for the powerful resources currently available. So, some simplifications are needed in order to succeed in the resolution process. This simplification is derived from considerations of the physics involved in the particular problem to be solved. In this work, the performance of a porous panel used in winterization of offshore platforms under snowing condition is studied. A comprehensive discussion of the mathematical representation of the total resolution process used to perform the simulation of the windshield capabilities of the porous fences is given. The numerical method used to solve the equation system is also discussed. Theoretical analysis and previous studies support the physical-mathematical approach described here.