Three-dimensional DEM simulation of polydisperse particle flow in rolling mode rotating drum

The flow behavior of polydisperse particles in rolling mode rotating drum is important in industry, but it is still not clear. In this work, the discrete element method (DEM) is used to explore the flow of particles in the three-dimensional drum. After the accuracy of simulation verified by the experimental data from literature, the particle bed is divided into active layer and passive layer. The flow behavior of polydisperse particles was re-vealed by studying the particle velocity, residence time, mixing and axial dispersion in different regions in the drum. By exploring the parameters such as rotation speed, filling level and the shape and position of the lifter, some ideas are provided for improving the performance of the rolling mode rotating drum. In addition, the dif-ference of flow behavior between polydisperse particles and monodisperse particles is also given, which can pro -vide some reference for the industrial application of complex particle system. (c) 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This study utilized the DEM method to investigate the flow behavior of polydisperse particles in a rolling mode rotating drum. By studying particle parameters in different regions, suggestions for improving performance were presented. Difference in flow behavior between polydisperse and monodisperse particles was also highlighted for industrial applications of complex particle systems.