Velocity fields of granular flows down a rough incline: a DEM investigation

This paper describes a statistical method to explore the velocity profiles of granular flows down rough inclines. Using 3D Discrete Element Method (DEM), granular material is released from a box onto a slope and allowed to flow indefinitely. Fluctuating velocity fields are observed, as particle motions become more dynamic and agitated. Linear regression is used to decompose the fluctuating velocity field into a best-fit velocity profile and a fluctuating component. Analysis shows that the slope inclination has a considerable influence on the rheology, in terms of both the fluctuating velocity and the shear rate of the flow.