A novel accurate model for tracking irregular particles: Development, implementation, and impact on biomass...

Area of Science:

• Fluid Dynamics
• Computational Science
• Particle Physics

Background:

• Multiphase flows with irregular particles are common in engineering.
• Particle rotation significantly impacts flow dynamics, mixing, and reactions.
• Existing models often overlook particle rotation, focusing only on translation.

Purpose of the Study:

• Develop a novel model to accurately couple translational and rotational motion of irregular particles.
• Address the limitations of conventional models that neglect particle rotation.
• Enhance the simulation accuracy and applicability of particle-laden multiphase flows.

Main Methods:

• Utilized drag, lift, and torque coefficients from particle-resolved direct numerical simulations.
• Developed an advanced analytical discretization scheme for coupling motions.
• Applied the model in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of a co-fired burner.

Main Results:

• Biomass particles (prolate ellipsoids) primarily rotate around their minor axes.
• Rotation intensity increases significantly as particle size decreases.
• Peak angular velocities around minor axes increased dramatically with smaller particle sizes.

Conclusions:

• The novel model provides accurate coupling of particle translation and rotation.
• It offers unprecedented insights into particle rotation dynamics.
• The model enhances simulation outcomes, including extended residence times, improved mixing, and intensified phase interactions.