Fatemeh Razavi, Ali Mohammadtabar, Carlos F. Lange
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
In this study, we present a successful application of the Computational Fluid Dynamics–Discrete Element Method (CFD–DEM) for simulating the complex phenomenon of multi-particle arch formation within high-concentration packed-bed environments. We investigate the roles of physical forces in this phenomenon, shedding light on aspects that are challenging to explore through experimentation. Our research is motivated by the desire to comprehend the conditions and parameters influencing the formation, stability, disruption, and reformation of multi-particle sand arches within filter openings. This arching phenomenon serves as an efficient particle retention mechanism, particularly in heavy oil production wells. We delve into factors like particle size, shape, and particle size distribution that may impact multi-particle arch performance. Additionally, we explore the physics behind multi-particle arching by examining the effects of various physical forces on arch performance. Utilizing a Computational Fluid Dynamics–Discrete Element Model, we investigate the multi-particle arching phenomenon under steady-state flow conditions in packed-bed environments. Our approach employs the unresolved coupling method in STAR-CCM+ (Siemens PLM). We test various filter slot geometries, including straight slots, keystone slots, wire-wrapped screens (WWS), and seamed slots, all under laminar flow conditions. Our findings highlight the significance of gravity, inter-particle forces, and interactions between the filter wall and the particles in multi-particle arch formation at both the slot opening and microscale levels. We confirm that a multi-particle arch can be formed within a specific slot width. Interestingly, while maintaining a constant slot width, we observe that the slot length has an insignificant effect on multi-particle arch formation and stability. In summary, our CFD–DEM model successfully simulates and predicts multi-particle arch formation, stabilization, breakage, and reformation, allowing for comprehensive testing of the effects of various parameters. This research offers valuable insights into a complex phenomenon that is crucial in packed-bed filtration systems.
期刊介绍:
-Publishes original research on physical, chemical, and biological aspects of transport in porous media-
Papers on porous media research may originate in various areas of physics, chemistry, biology, natural or materials science, and engineering (chemical, civil, agricultural, petroleum, environmental, electrical, and mechanical engineering)-
Emphasizes theory, (numerical) modelling, laboratory work, and non-routine applications-
Publishes work of a fundamental nature, of interest to a wide readership, that provides novel insight into porous media processes-
Expanded in 2007 from 12 to 15 issues per year.
Transport in Porous Media publishes original research on physical and chemical aspects of transport phenomena in rigid and deformable porous media. These phenomena, occurring in single and multiphase flow in porous domains, can be governed by extensive quantities such as mass of a fluid phase, mass of component of a phase, momentum, or energy. Moreover, porous medium deformations can be induced by the transport phenomena, by chemical and electro-chemical activities such as swelling, or by external loading through forces and displacements. These porous media phenomena may be studied by researchers from various areas of physics, chemistry, biology, natural or materials science, and engineering (chemical, civil, agricultural, petroleum, environmental, electrical, and mechanical engineering).