A coupled computational fluid dynamics-discrete element method modeling for the dynamic behavior of the polar detector in a crushed ice environment during polar exploration

Abstract

Investigating the dynamic behavior of polar detectors holds significance for the polar exploration of clean energy production. This paper uses computational fluid dynamics and the discrete element method, complemented by laboratory experiments, to systematically explore the water entry dynamics of a projectile passing through a zone of crushed ice accumulation. The research analyzes the influence of different crushed ice accumulation heights (ha) and water entry conditions on cavity formation, flow field distribution, and dynamic characteristics as the projectile passes through the crushed ice zone. Moreover, the influence of multi-body coupling on the movement of crushed ice and fluid is analyzed. The findings reveal alterations in the water entry behavior of the projectile due to the presence of the crushed ice accumulation zone. A notable two-way coupling mechanism between crushed ice and fluid is identified: crushed ice particles influence liquid level fluctuations and cavity evolution, while fluid flow impacts the movement of crushed ice particles. As the height of crushed ice accumulation increases, this coupling effect intensifies, leading to changes in the flow field distribution near the cavity and the hydrodynamic behavior of the projectile. While the alteration in water entry Froude number (Fr) may not significantly alter the evolution pattern of the liquid level flow field, it notably affects the distribution range and formation scale of the flow field characteristics. Additionally, the water entry Fr influences the load characteristics of the projectile as it passes through the crushed ice zone.