Work

CFD model of dust unsteady flame propagation in the 20 L bomb

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The development of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models for dust unsteady flame propagation presents a major challenge, particularly in the selection of a suitable combustion sub-model. Particle-based Lagrangian models provide a detailed description of the thermochemical conversion of fuels, but are often computationally expensive and impractical for most industrial applications. Premixed combustion models, on the other hand, treat the air/dust mixture as a single homogeneous fluid, with the chemical reactions occurring predominantly in the gas phase. These models are suitable for the simulation of biomass dust explosions, where the rapid release and combustion of volatile gases dominates the flame propagation. In this paper, a CFD model of unsteady flame propagation of biomass is developed using OpenFOAM. The model relies on a novel equation previously developed for the evaluation of the laminar flame speed of air/dust mixture inspired by the Mallard-Le Chatelier theory. Model validation is performed by comparing CFD simulation results with the literature data on cornstarch dust explosions in a 20 L bomb. • Development of a CFD model in OpenFOAM for unsteady biomass dust flame propagation. • Laminar flame speed equation inspired by Mallard-Le Chatelier theory for premixed approach. • Validation of the model using experimental data from cornstarch dust explosions.

Source: Journal of Loss Prevention in the Process Industries

DOI: 10.1016/j.jlp.2025.105573

Authors: Alain Islas, Maria Portarapillo, Adrián Pandal, Roberto Sanchirico, Almerinda Di Benedetto

Institutions: Universidad de Oviedo, University of Naples Federico II, National Research Council

Language: English

Topic: Combustion and Detonation Processes

Subfield: Aerospace Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,020

Funder: Gobierno del Principado de Asturias