B. M. Ghodki, K.B. Chhetri, T. K. Goswami
Wiley
Journal of Food Process Engineering
Cryogenic precooler/precooler is the essential component of a cryogenic grinding system that removes the desired amount of heat from a sample with the aid of a cryogen such that brittle type of failure occurs during grinding. Nevertheless, the understanding of particle dynamics, heat transfer phenomena, and optimal cryo‐grinding condition are obligatory to lower the operational cost and scaling up the findings. Therefore, the present study aims to model three‐dimensional dynamic flow behavior of black pepper seeds in star valve type precooler using discrete element method (DEM). The Hertz‐Mindlin contact model was utilized to simulate the granular flow profile of the seeds. The DEM simulation results of flow pattern and volumetric fill level of bulk granules in different sections (feed, mid, and discharge) of precooler were in line with the results of the experimental approach. Overall, DEM modeling provided a better insight into particle‐scale flow dynamics in precooler.