CFD Analysis of Particle Dynamics in Accelerated Toroidal Systems for Enhanced PIVG Performance

This study investigates the movements of particles in an accelerated toroidal flow channel filled with water, with specific applications for a particle imaging velocimetry gyroscope (PIVG). We used computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to simulate particle behavior under different angular accelerations. These angular accelerations were 4 rad/s², 6 rad/s², and 8 rad/s² for particles densities of 1100 kg/m³, 1050 kg/m³, and 980 kg/m³. An examination was performed on the particles' concentration distribution, velocity profiles, and displacement patterns with respect to the toroidal geometry, which had a volume fraction of 1.5% and was sized at 50 microns. Our results show that particle density significantly affects behavior and displacement within the toroidal flow, with heavier particles (1100 kg/m³) settling more quickly and concentrating near the lower z values over time, while lighter particles (980 kg/m³) maintain a more uniform distribution. This understanding is crucial for optimizing PIVG accuracy and reliability.