A coupled lattice Boltzmann method and discrete element method for discrete particle simulations of particulate flows

Rettinger C, Rüde U (2018)


Publication Language: English

Publication Type: Journal article, Original article

Publication year: 2018

Journal

Pages Range: 706-719

DOI: 10.1016/j.compfluid.2018.01.023

Abstract

Discrete particle simulations are widely used to study large-scale particulate flows in complex geometries
where particle–particle and particle–fluid interactions require an adequate representation but the compu-
tational cost has to be kept low. In this work, we present a novel coupling approach for such simulations.
A lattice Boltzmann formulation of the generalized Navier–Stokes equations is used to describe the fluid
motion. This promises efficient simulations suitable for high performance computing and, since volume
displacement effects by the solid phase are considered, our approach is also applicable to non-dilute par-
ticulate systems. The discrete element method is combined with an explicit evaluation of interparticle
lubrication forces to simulate the motion of individual submerged particles. Drag, pressure and added
mass forces determine the momentum transfer by fluid–particle interactions. A stable coupling algorithm
is presented and discussed in detail. We demonstrate the validity of our approach for dilute as well as for
dense systems by predicting the settling velocity of spheres over a broad range of solid volume fractions
in good agreement with semi-empirical correlations. Moreover, the accuracy of particle–wall interactions
in a viscous fluid is thoroughly tested and established. Finally, simulations of mono- and bi-disperse flu-
idized beds highlight the capability of our new approach to handle configurations with large particle
numbers.

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How to cite

APA:

Rettinger, C., & Rüde, U. (2018). A coupled lattice Boltzmann method and discrete element method for discrete particle simulations of particulate flows. Computers & Fluids, 706-719. https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.compfluid.2018.01.023

MLA:

Rettinger, Christoph, and Ulrich Rüde. "A coupled lattice Boltzmann method and discrete element method for discrete particle simulations of particulate flows." Computers & Fluids (2018): 706-719.

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