Numerical Analysis on Liquefaction of Iron Ore Fines under Rolling Motion of Ships Using Microscopic Fluid Coupling Scheme Devised in Discrete Element Method

Abstract

A numerical simulation is conducted to investigate movement of iron ore fines by ship's rolling motion under saturated condition using the microscopic fluid coupling scheme devised in the Discrete Element Method. The scheme solves pore water pressure in particle assemblies by change of void spaces and flows between them. Updated pore water pressure is applied to related particles around void spaces. The result shows liquefaction, that is, pore water pressure increases, as rolling motion begins, the effective stress decreases on the other hand. Relative motion between particles increases upper area of the assembly, also particles on surface moves laterally as rolling motion proceeds, such that, the surface tilts from the lateral direction during motion. Further analysis with changing parameters, such as water content is needed for safe carriage of iron ore fines.