A Numerical Study of Particle Flow and Mixing on Conveying Equipment in Two and Three Dimensions by the Discrete Element Method (DEM)

Based on LEAT’s discrete element codes, granular flow and mixing on conveying equipment is studied in two and three dimensions. Discrete element simulations, which are briefly introduced, provide detailed information on particle positions and velocities over time. This information is used to derive quantities characterizing the dynamic process of mixing. The main focus of the study presented is the mixing process of inhomogeneous particle ensembles on different grate types. For this purpose the introduced mixing parameters are used to compare the mixing in a 3D situation with the corresponding 2D approximation on identical grates and to compare different grate designs in two dimensions.