The discrete element method in silo/bin research. Recent advances and future trends

Abstract

Silo research has been carried out since more than a century ago. However, many problems are still unresolved. Experiments have contributed to validate theoretical models and explain phenomena in silos, but since they usually involve a significant cost, numerical models have gained increasing attention by researchers. In this regard, the discrete element method is being used extensively to model the behavior of particulate systems such as those found within silos and bins. Initially, the main concern using this numerical method was focused on the validity of the models, since simplifications were usually introduced to reduce the computational cost. Over time, validation and calibration methods have been proposed in parallel with its use in different applications, obtaining consistent results comparing with experiments mainly at a laboratory scale. Nowadays, the combined use of DEM with other numerical methods is being continuously explored showing that it possesses a high potential for explaining phenomena in many different research fields. A review of its use in solids handling, more specifically in silos, together with a discussion on current limitations, and future trends will be presented in this article.

Keywords:

• Silos
• hoppers
• discrete element method
• applications