Flow Field Characteristics of Fugitive Dust from Grab Unloading in an Open Space

Abstract

Aiming at addressing the problem of dust generated when grab is unloaded, the flow field characteristics of fugitive dust in an open space were studied and reflected its unstable and complex nonlinear dynamic process. Using coal, sand, and flour as research objects, an experimental model and measurement system for grab unloading were built, and the dust diffusion range, diffusion speed and direction, settling time, dust concentration, and induced wind velocity at different measurement points were compared. The computational fluid dynamics–discrete element method (CFD-DEM) coupling method was adopted, the discrete phase model (DPM) of dust was established, the interaction of the particle, dust, and airflow fields during the unloading process of the grab was further studied, and the distribution and diffusion laws of the induced airflow and dust were obtained. The acquisition of flow field characteristics is of great significance for controlling and guiding the orderly deposition of dust.