Modeling and simulation of sheets ply separation induced by air flow

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to investigate the mechanism of sheets ply separation induced by air flow through numerical simulation with two-way FSI (fluid-structure interaction) simulation using ANSYS and theoretical speculation. Design/methodology/approach The paper primarily establishes a simplified physical model of the sheets ply separation induced by air flow. Then, the force of the air flow acting on the sheet has been analyzed based on the model, and the main factor leading to separation was obtained. Furthermore, the parameter analysis was investigated based on linear stability analysis, from which the factors that affect stable separation are obtained. Finally, a series of numerical simulations are performed to verify the conclusions. Findings This study shows that the main separation factor is the variable air pressure in the gap between the sheets caused by the dynamic pressure air flow. Increasing the inlet velocity of the flow field will increase the separation distance but excessive velocity will lead to instability. The viscous resistance acting on the sheet and the bending stiffness of the sheet are factors that stabilize the system, and the sheet density and the restoring force can lead to instability. Originality/value The paper is one of the first in the literature that investigates the problem of sheets ply separation induced by air flow, which is the primary method for multi-layer separation in sheets de-stacking operations, especially for the high-speed occasion.