Dynamics of sedimentation of flexible fibers in moderate Reynolds number flows
Direct simulations of dynamics of free falling of single and multi flexible cylindrical fibers in a finite Reynolds number flow are performed. Fiber flexibility and unsteady fluid dynamics are treated as a coupled system, utilizing a lattice Boltzmann (LB) equation and a flexible structure model. Effects of flexibility on unsteady dynamics are studied. It is demonstrated that not only flexible single fiber but also multi flexible diluted fibers have a larger settling velocity than stiff fibers. More streamlined fiber shape due to flexibility significantly reduces drag forces. It is shown that multi-fibers have a larger settling velocity than its corresponding single isolated fiber. It seems that diluted flexible fibers are flocculated more easily than stiff fibers. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
flexible fiber lattice boltzmann simulation fiber suspensions