How do you choose the best contact model for DEM simulations of granular media?
Numerical simulation is a powerful tool to study the behavior of granular media, such as sand, soil, or powder, under various conditions. One of the most common methods to simulate granular media is the discrete element method (DEM), which treats each particle as a rigid body that interacts with its neighbors through contact forces. However, choosing the best contact model for DEM simulations is not a trivial task, as different models have different assumptions, parameters, and limitations. In this article, you will learn about some of the main factors that influence the choice of contact model, and how to compare and evaluate different options for your specific problem.