Detecting vorticity in cohesive deformable granular material

Numerical models of granular materials are useful in tribology, and can be used to predict wear friction contacts. DEM-like simulations model particles third-body, which partly debris from rubbing bodies. It has been shown that the third-body have different flow regimes, depending on their mechanical properties. Among characteristics agglomerate size seems crucial. A method based vortex analysis fluid mechanics allows characterizing this cluster size. The results show sizes observed during simulation. In particular, it is some vortexes a characteristic persist over time, could representative agglomerates. These pave way for better characterisation regimes.