An Approximate Solution of the Tangential Interaction Between Spheres With an Interstitial Power Law Fluid
Li Hongyan, Huang Wenbin, Xu Yong
(College of Applied Engineering Sciences, CAU)

Abstract: Based on Reynolds' lubrication theory, an approximate pressure equation for the tangential interaction between two arbitrary rigid spheres with an interstitial power-law fluid has been derived. Afterwards expressions for both the viscous force and the moment were presented. The results indicate that the power index, the minimum gap width and the size ratio are the main fact ors affect the magnitude of the pressure, the force and the moment. Comparison between the numerical results and Goldman's asymptotic solutions indicates that the proposed numerical results are reasonable and more accurate than the asymptotic solution.
Keywords: Distinct element method, granular, power-law fluid.