Output details

Experimental validation of polyhedral discrete element model

The efficient handling and storage of granular materials, from large coal nuggets to tiny flour grains, have concerned engineers for many years. Models, such as those based on the discrete element method can help in predicting the behaviour of such systems but are only really useful if properly validated against actual data. Most models assume a spherical representation which, compared to real granular materials, is an enormous simplification. The significance of this paper is that it brings together experimental and theoretical (model generated) data for non-spherical, polyhedral, materials to provide powerful insights into the flow of granular solids in hoppers.