Numerical simulation on stirring motion and mixing characteristics of ellipsoid particles

Abstract

To investigate the motion characteristics and the law of identical property for particles obtained under segregation to uniform distribution conditions in forced agitation mixing, the mixing process of the same sized ellipsoidal particles at different rotating speeds in a U-tank is simulated using three-dimensional discrete element method. Macroscopic mixing law and partial mixing characteristics in particle mixing process are analysed in the view of single particle random motion trajectory and motion vector diagram of macroscopic particle flow. And the mathematical relation between mixability and revolutions of agitating blades is described quantitatively. Results show that convective mixing and four partial mixing characteristics control the mixing homogeneity process of identical property of segregation particles in forced agitation mixing. Mixability of segregation particles is independent of rotating speed of the agitating shaft, but has a direct correlation with revolutions. The relation between mixability and revolutions agrees with the exponential growth model. Research results can provide the basis and reference for equipment improvement and operating control of bulk material in the industry of the augmenting of mix.