What is it about?
Based on the coupling of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Discrete Element Method (DEM), a comprehensive numerical analysis of ice breaking by a submerged water jet is conducted. The submerged water jet model is developed using the Finite Volume Method (FVM) within the CFD framework, while the ice plate model is constructed from multi-layer spherical DEM particles arranged in a hexagonal close-packed structure. Numerical simulations yield results that are consistent with experimental data, including the morphology of the submerged jet, the stagnation pressure of the water jet, and various ice breaking scenarios. This consistency validates the reliability of the numerical model. Building on this model, the effects of several key parameters on the impact load of the submerged jet are investigated, specifically the target distance, nozzle inlet velocity, and impact angle. Additionally, through the CFD-DEM coupling model, the mechanism of ice breaking by the submerged water jet is explored. Findings reveal that initial radial cracks form on the upper surface of the ice plate due to the reflected expansion wave and the overall bending caused by the jet's impact. Subsequently, circumferential cracks develop on the lower surface of the ice wedge under the bending action induced by the water jet. Furthermore, the influence of the water jet's impact velocity and the thickness of the ice plate on the ice-breaking process is examined. This study provides valuable insights into the ice-breaking mechanism of submerged high-speed water jets and introduces a robust numerical model for analyzing the interaction between the submerged water jet and the ice plate
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Why is it important?
In the future, we envision polar equipment being equipped with jet generation devices to produce submerged water jets for ice breaking. This technology can also be applied to ice breaking operations for spud legs of marine platforms, as well as the deployment and retrieval of polar exploration autonomous underwater vehicle(AUV), and other fields. This numerical model broadens the research idea of submerged water jets ice breaking as a new auxiliary ice breaking method.
Perspectives
As the authors of this study, we aim to highlight the critical importance of understanding and developing advanced ice-breaking technologies. Our research on the numerical simulation of ice breaking by a submerged water jet underscores the complexities and challenges of operating in polar regions. We hope that this work will draw greater attention to the unique environmental and engineering issues faced in these areas. By sharing our findings, we aspire to inspire further research and innovation in polar science and technology. We believe that collaborative efforts among scientists, engineers, and policymakers are essential to addressing the challenges and seizing the opportunities in polar regions. Our goal is to contribute to the development of more efficient and sustainable solutions for polar exploration and resource utilization, ultimately enhancing the safety and environmental stewardship in these vital areas.
Guangyu Yuan
Harbin Engineering University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Numerical simulation study on ice breaking by a submerged water jet, Physics of Fluids, November 2024, American Institute of Physics,
DOI: 10.1063/5.0230489.
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