Numerical simulation on solid-liquid two-phase flow in cross fractures

This paper presents a series of numerical simulation on solid-liquid two-phase flow in cross fractures based on the Two-Fluid Model and the kinetic theory of granular flow (KTGF). First, the model is validated by previous experimental data. Second, the dimensionless controlling parameters are derived to describe the particle-laden flow in cross fractures, including the angle between the main and branch slots (bypass angle) θ, inlet particle volume fraction αs0, the ratio of particle size to branch slot width ds/wb, the Archimedes number Ar and the Reynolds number Re. Third, the effects of the dimensionless parameters are investigated. The results show that particles tend to accumulate at the intersection between the main slot and the branch slot. Larger bypass angle between the main slot and branch slot leads to less particle's flow into the branch slot. The distance of the branch fracture from the inlet of the main fracture induces different particle-flow characteristics into the branch slot. Particle volume fraction at the stable stage increases with the decrease of ds/wb. The deposition thickness of particles increases with the increase of the inlet volume fraction and Ar number, while decreases with the increase of Re number.