Simulations of granular flow along an inclined plane using the Savage–Hutter model

In this work a velocity-dependent friction is introduced into a depth-averaged Savage–Hutter dynamical model for shallow granular flows. The process of granular material flowing along an inclined plane and then depositing on a horizontal plane is simulated. The surface profiles and evolution of various types of energy are investigated and compared when using the standard Coulomb-type friction versus velocity-dependent friction. Interestingly, there is a small difference between the two different types of friction.

Graphical abstractEvolution of simulated surface profiles for granular flow along a slope.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► A velocity-dependent friction is introduced into a depth-averaging Savage–Hutter dynamical model for shallow granular flows. ► The evolution of various types of energies is investigated. ► The standard Coulomb-type friction shows acceptable accuracy in describing natural granular flows.