A benchmarking study of different DEM coarse graining strategies

Abstract

DEM-CFD is computationally very demanding and currently restricted to lab-scale systems with limited particle numbers. To address this issue, coarse graining approaches are used, summarizing particles of the original system into grains. In this study, hydrodynamic force scaling models are compared in a fixed bed, to eliminate the influence of contact force. Additionally, common contact force scaling models are benchmarked in a mechanically agitated bed to eliminate the influence of hydrodynamic forces. For both optimal scaling rules are identified based on the comparison of physical parameters. In a second step, fluidized beds are analyzed whether the best scaling models from the preceding studies focusing solely on contact or fluid forces are equally applicable in systems governed by both contact and hydrodynamic forces. In doing so, this work aims to give a reasonable recommendation, which coarse graining models should be used for the future simulations of industrial scale particle systems.