Monte Carlo modelling of erosion processes

Abstract

Many models are available in the literature that describe ductile and brittle erosion processes and the influence of scale formation on the erosion process. It is clear that each of these models has limited applicability restricted by the mode of material removal being modelled. Hence, if erosion processes over a wide range of dynamic conditions expected in service are to be modelled then a new approach unifying the individual mechanistic models must be adopted. This paper presents such a unified approach. Monte Carlo simulation techniques are used to model the stochastic nature of erosion processes. Particle properties, material surface condition and the local dynamic impact environment are individually considered and permit a suitable mechanistic erosion model to be selected for the particular impact conditions. Variation in particle size, impact velocity and material properties are accommodated by using statistical distributions to describe each condition. Using Monte Carlo methods discrete impact conditions are selected and the amount of damage is calculated. The final erosion rate is given by summing all of the discrete damage events. Predictions using this modelling approach are compared with examples taken from laboratory studies aimed at simulating gas turbine service and coal combined cycle environments are used to demonstrate the versatility of this Monte Carlo approach.