CFD Simulation for Gravimetric Dosing Machine ā Need Help Modeling Material Flow with Screw Rotation
Hi everyone,
Iām currently designing a gravimetric dosing machine in SolidWorks, and I need to simulate the flow of granular or powdered material inside the hopper and screw system.
While I already plan to run FEM analysis for the mechanical load-bearing capacity, I also need to understand how much material flows out per screw rotation, and how changes in pitch, diameter, or rotation speed affect that flow.
š Could you guide me on how to set up CFD analysis in SolidWorks (or with Flow Simulation add-in) to model this kind of particle or air-assisted flow?
š Iād also appreciate any tutorial, example project, or reference video showing similar screw-conveyor or dosing system CFD simulations.
This project is part of my new engineering position, so every bit of advice will be very valuable. Thanks in advance for your insights and time!
1 Answer
Hello there,
Generally speaking, these type of simulations are done through means of DEM (Discrete Element Modelling) and not by means of CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics).
DEM allows you to simulate bulk solids, which is actually what you need, as opposed to CFD, since bulk solids can act as a liquid and solids at the same time, which is also why CFD alone wont give you accurate results, and which is why you need simulations based on bulk solids as oppose to liquids.
DEM simulations also allows you to specify particle sizes, particle shapes, density, moisture levels, stickyness, friction etc etc, but you may not be able to run airflow simulations or water sims in DEM.
Perhaps you can elaborate on why you need airflow sims as well?
Unless you can procure yourself a copy of EDEM (software name) or BFA (Bulk flow analyst), i suggest you consult with someone who has the capability to assist you for accurate sim results.
Alternatively, you can also search the web for DEM add-ons for Solidworks, though i cannot vouch for the accuracy as much.
Feel free to get in touch for more details, or visit my FB page for contact details. I'll gladly advise and assist where i can.
Kind regards
