Recent advances in the simulation of particle-laden flows

TL;DR

This paper reviews recent algorithms for simulating particle-laden flows, compares different methods, and presents two state-of-the-art examples using Discrete Element Method coupled with fluid solvers, highlighting their applications and differences.

Contribution

It provides an overview of existing simulation methods and details two advanced examples, illustrating the coupling of DEM with grid-based and mesh-free fluid solvers.

Findings

Multicomponent lattice Boltzmann effectively models particle-stabilized interfaces.

Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics is promising for free surface flows.

Different coupling strategies suit various particle-fluid interaction problems.

Abstract

A substantial number of algorithms exists for the simulation of moving particles suspended in fluids. However, finding the best method to address a particular physical problem is often highly non-trivial and depends on the properties of the particles and the involved fluid(s) together. In this report we provide a short overview on a number of existing simulation methods and provide two state of the art examples in more detail. In both cases, the particles are described using a Discrete Element Method (DEM). The DEM solver is usually coupled to a fluid-solver, which can be classified as grid-based or mesh-free (one example for each is given). Fluid solvers feature different resolutions relative to the particle size and separation. First, a multicomponent lattice Boltzmann algorithm (mesh-based and with rather fine resolution) is presented to study the behavior of particle stabilized fluid interfaces and second, a Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics implementation (mesh-free, meso-scale resolution, similar to the particle size) is introduced to highlight a new player in the field, which is expected to be particularly suited for flows including free surfaces.