Flow of tiny particles past a cylinder: A COMSOL multi-physics analysis

This study investigates the flow of tiny particles past a circular cylinder using COMSOL Multiphysics 6.1, focusing on laminar and transitional regimes in a two-dimensional channel. Comprehensive numerical simulations were performed to analyze the interaction between the fluid field and particle trajectories, with geometry, material properties, and boundary conditions systematically defined for accuracy. The methodology involved parameter definition, domain meshing with finer elements, and time-dependent analyses of drag and lift coefficients, alongside detailed particle tracking. Results revealed temporal variations in drag coefficient dependent on flow stability, and highlighted boundary layer behavior, including separation phenomena. Continuous monitoring of vortex shedding and wake structure provided insights into the complex dynamics governing particle transport near the cylinder. The findings underscore the significance of computational modeling for understanding fluid-particle interactions and demonstrate that particle dynamics and drag forces are highly sensitive to flow regime and system configuration. This research contributes to the improved prediction of particulate movement in engineering systems, offering a validated multiphysics framework for future studies in flow control and design optimization.