Parametric Research of Granular Flow in Silos: A Micro-Mechanical Approach

Abstract

The study of granular materials stored in silos is traditionally conducted with postulates and definitions of the continuum mechanics. Specific interactions of the granular matter into the silo (e.g. contact forces or velocity) are not quantified in this theory. Considering this limitation, the purpose of this research is to study the granular flow of corn particles and their interactions during the silo discharge by means of micro-mechanical methodologies i.e., the discrete element method (DEM). DEM is a numerical technique that allows to model granular assemblies based on their mechanical, physical properties and interactions. In this study, assemblies constructed with representative particles of corn have been developed. Velocity profiles, stresses in the silo walls, force chains and deformations of the bulk are the generated outcomes after running the simulation cases. In conclusion, the repose angle of the stored material plays a starring role in the mechanical response of the granular matter in the silo. Wall stresses, force chains and deformations increased when the silo hopper is lower than the repose angle of the corn granular assembly (27°).