Three-dimensional DEM simulation of polydisperse particle flow in rolling mode rotating drum

The flow behavior of polydisperse particles in rolling mode rotating drum is important in industry, but it is still not clear. In this work, the discrete element method (DEM) is used to explore the flow of particles in the three-dimensional drum. After the accuracy of simulation verified by the experimental data from literature, the particle bed is divided into active layer and passive layer. The flow behavior of polydisperse particles was revealed by studying the particle velocity, residence time, mixing and axial dispersion in different regions in the drum. By exploring the parameters such as rotation speed, filling level and the shape and position of the lifter, some ideas are provided for improving the performance of the rolling mode rotating drum. In addition, the difference of flow behavior between polydisperse particles and monodisperse particles is also given, which can provide some reference for the industrial application of complex particle system. Flow behavior of polydispersed particles in active and passive layers and the parameter optimization of rotating drum. • DEM is used to study the flow behavior of polydisperse particles in a rolling mode rotating drum. • Velocity, residence time, mixing and axial dispersion of active and passive layers are studied. • Improvement scheme of filling level, rotation speed and lifter of rotating drum is given. • Reference is provided for application of monodisperse particle theory to polydisperse particles.