Coupled CFD-DEM Simulation of Seed Flow in Horizontal-Vertical Tube Transition

A series of computational fluid dynamics–discrete element method (CFD-DEM) simulations were applied to seed flow in horizontal-vertical 90-degree elbows. The performance one-way and two-way CFD-DEM coupling methods was compared. Additionally, simulated velocities compared the current pneumatic conveying theory for each method. Simulated field peas (Pisum sativum) pneumatically conveyed study effect air velocity (20, 25, 30 m/s), rate (0.07, 0.21, 0.42 kg/s), elbow diameter, D, (48.3, 60.3, 72.4 mm), bend radius (1.5D, 2.5D, 3.5D, 4.5D) on attributes (trajectory, velocity, force). Results showed that significantly different between coupling. Both resulted nearly identical trajectory force. Overall, had a strong correlation values calculated through conveyance theory. Dimensional analysis revealed contact force proportional diameter power 0.26 inversely 0.5. Simulation results indicated could be suitable describe when may not possible or practical.