Investigation of the multi-layer open cell foam filter model using numerical simulation and experimental studies

Abstract

In this work, we studied the influence of the internal features of an open cell foam material structure on the efficiency of particle deposition and the pressure drop value of the medium. Constructing of the open cell foam filter models is based on the Distinct Element Method, which allows creating geometry with a random arrangement of pores in space. Calculations of the flow field and particle trajectories were performed using the ANSYS Fluent software package (v. 19.0). Experimental studies were conducted using samples created on the basis of the inverse matrix of 3D printed computational models. Also, models of various geometries with a fixed porosity of the medium are considered. Conducted numerical and experimental studies show that the filter model with the lowest porosity provides the highest deposition efficiency of particles. For a given fixed porosity of the medium, a filter with a change in the cells in diameter across the layers gives a lower value of the pressure drop, which is a significant advantage. The results can serve as the basis for creating aerosol filters with improved characteristics.