EDEM Research Spotlight- Prediction of Soil Reaction Force on Disc by Discrete Element Modelling
Altair Employee- RESEARCHER
- Ali Khosravani
- INSTITUTE
- University of South Australia, Australia
- DEPARTMENT
- School of Engineering
- SUPERVISOR
- Dr Chris Saunders & Dr Mustafa Ucgul
The project aims to evaluate the capability of Discrete Element Modelling when predicting soil reaction forces on a flat rotating disc opener and comparing the simulation results with the experimental data. The DEM parameters required to run the simulations were determined using a calibration process. After calibrating the DEM materials and properties, series of simulation were performed at different disc settings and soil conditions aiming to develop a numerical soil force prediction model suited to a free rotating disc opener. Simulation results showed that by increasing sweep angle, speed and operating depth of disc; draft, vertical and lateral force increased which was comparable to the test results. The simulation results showed that it is possible to predict soil reaction forces and demonstrate soil stickiness under different disc settings and soil conditions. 
Fig 1. Arial view of flat rotating disc opener running through soil
Fig 2. Side view of flat rotating disc opener running through soil
Flat rotating disc opener running through dry soil conditions
Flat rotating disc opener running through wet, sticky soil conditions
EDEM gave results that matched our experimental data.