Simulation of flow properties of differently shaped particles using the discrete element method

Abstract Materials in a powder form are frequently used in various industries for the manufacturing of commodity and high‐value products. To properly design the powder‐handling equipment and powder processes, it is essential to know the powder flow properties that depend, among other parameters, on the particle shape. The nonspherical particles such as aggregates, cylinders, corn‐shaped particles, and fibers are often used in the industry. Recently, modeling approaches have been devised to simulate the powder flow and particle−particle interactions in powder processing. In this article, we discuss an educational module developed to introduce students to the modeling of powder processes with particles of various shapes and techniques used for the measurement of powder flow properties. The module was designed to support the undergraduate and graduate courses for chemical, material, mechanical, and civil engineering students. The survey revealed that the module increased students’ theoretical knowledge of the powder processing and developed practical skills in the modeling of powder processes.