Granular Flow Module
COMSOL Multiphysics® version 6.4 introduces the Granular Flow Module, an add-on product for simulating the motion and interaction of solid particles in bulk processes. Based on the discrete element method (DEM), the module calculates the movement of individual grains, such as powders, pellets, or tablets, to predict large-scale behavior like flow, packing, and mixing.
The Granular Flow Module enables engineers and researchers to analyze a wide range of granular processes, including hopper discharge, silo storage, chute transport, mixing, segregation, and powder spreading. By resolving particle-scale interactions such as collisions, adhesion, rotational resistance, and heat transfer, the module provides insight into both microscale particle dynamics and macroscale bulk behavior.
With detailed control over particle properties, release conditions, and wall interactions, the module can predict outcomes such as flow uniformity, packing density, mixing efficiency, segregation, wall stresses, and thermal effects. Its results help identify issues like blockages, uneven flow, and equipment wear, supporting design improvements and process optimization.
The Granular Flow Module is applicable to industries including pharmaceuticals, chemical processing, agriculture, mining, and additive manufacturing, where understanding the behavior of bulk solids is critical for efficient and reliable operations.
Grains being transported using a screw conveyor. The grains are colored by their release time.
A powder bed formed due to the motion of a roller. The grains are colored by their coordination numbers.
For more information, please see the Granular Flow Module product page.