A Lagrangian model for the dispersion of solid particles, in three-dimensional flow, using a CVFEM for the prediction of the continuous phase

A Lagrangian-Eulerian model for the dispersion of solid particles in a three-dimensional, incompressible, laminar or turbulent flow is reported, tested and partly validated. Prediction of the continuous phase is done by solving an Eulerian model using a Control-Volume Finite Element Method (CVFEM). A Lagrangian model is also applied, using alternatively an analytical and a Runge-Kutta 4th order method to obtain the particle trajectories. The effect of fluid turbulence upon particle dispersion is taken into consideration through a simple stochastic approach. Preliminary tests have yielded successful results, ranging from simple verifications and comparisons with available analytical results to the evaluation of the dependence of fluid pressure drop on concentration of the dispersed phase (two-way coupling effect).