27. DEM Simulation: From Granular Crystal Modeling to Large Industrial

Granular materials are solid particles whose collective dynamics produce unique phenomena. They can be uncounted for in industrial applications as dry or wet bulk materials. The most straightforward systems, in dry configuration, can be modeled as granular crystals formed by orderly arrangements of particles without significant relative movement. Possible applications of granular crystals are devices to control wave propagation. Proposals to attenuate impacts and filter mechanical waves are discussed. For particles with more energy and degrees of freedom, with cohesive forces, as van der Waals forces and capillary forces, in the case of wet granular material, a more general 3D modeling is needed. Granular flow is critical in the mining industry, where industrial steps process can be optimized. The different forms of numerical simulation of granular flows are presented in this chapter. A review of some investigations from the authors is briefly discussed. In the general DEM method, examples are presented for dry particles: granular crystal modeling and wet granular flow. For industrial mining cases, numerical and experimental results are provided for transfer chutes and hopper feedings cases studies. Modeling discussion, calibration steps, practical applications, and perspectives are presented.