DEM + SPH

Theoretically development, extension and application of Smooth particle hydrodynamics (SPH) and discrete element methods (DEM) is a core strength of the Modelling and Simulations Team.  Two examples are illustrated below.      

Collisional-SPH
Collisional-SPH is a framework for modelling granular collisions using smooth particle hydrodynamics. It combines the deformation modelling capability of SPH with an accurate friction modelling approach. This allows it to model the intricate interdependence between material deformation, residual stresses and rebound kinematics, which will be of value in analyzing deformation and wear in applications like mills and mixers. Modelling the microscale forces also provides a deeper insight into understanding the physics of contact friction.

 

Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF)

Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF) is a computational tool created to simulate a 3D printing process.  With this tool, we are able to simulate complex laser patterns melting of a bed of non-spherical titanium powder grains and the cooling and microstructure changes of the powder.  The tool combines the discrete element method (DEM) for the powder raking, an extended smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) for melt pool dynamics and a semi-empirical microstructure evolution strategy to simulate the evolving temperature and microstructure of non-spherical titanium powder grains.  The tool is being developed in collaboration with Data 61 and the Manufacturing Business Unit.