Coarse grained DEM simulation of non-spherical and poly-dispersed particles using Scaled-Up Particle (SUP) model

In this work, the validity of the Scaled-Up Particle (SUP) model, which is a novel coarse grain model for Discrete Element Method (DEM), is examined to simulate a flow of non-spherical and poly-dispersed particles. The SUP model is based on the authors' previous work and the scaling law is derived from the continuum assumption of an arbitrary particles flow. We discuss that the model is applicable not only to spherical and mono-dispersed particles, as is the case tested in the previous work, but also to non-spherical and poly-dispersed particles. Simulations of various systems are performed such as compression of a particle bed, heap formation, high shear mixer, large scale rotary drum and V-mixer. It is shown that the results obtained from the SUP model are in both qualitative and quantitative agreement with those from the original particles as long as the resolution is sufficiently high.

Automated summary

This study examines the validity of the Scaled-Up Particle (SUP) model as a novel coarse grain model for Discrete Element Method (DEM) in simulating a flow of non-spherical and poly-dispersed particles. The SUP model is based on the authors' previous work and the scaling law derived from the continuum assumption of an arbitrary particles flow. The study shows that the SUP model is applicable to both spherical and mono-dispersed particles as well as non-spherical and poly-dispersed particles, as long as the resolution is sufficiently high.