Abstract
The distinct element method (DEM) is generally used for problems concerning granular materials, and there are numerous reports which indicate validity of the DEM for such problems. Howerer, most of them are 2-dimensional (2-D), while those of 3-dimensional (3-D) models are concerned with a small number of particles. There is a difference between 2-D and 3-D analysis; practical phenomenon is three dimensional. Therefore, 3-D analysis is naturally better, but there is currently a shortage in the number of particles in 3-D analysis. It has been previously shown that the 2-D DEM can qualitatively simulate the behavior of granular materials. Thus 2-D and 3-D simulation must go together. In this paper, from the viewpoint of the arrangement of particles, i. e. the characteristics of the flow and arch effect, the differences between 2-D and 3-D are discussed using some examples. Considering these differences the DEM is found to be practical.
