
Numerical and Experimental Analysis of Lunar Regolith Transport in Vibrating Pipes
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Following the general framework of the ISRU approach, we explore the use of vibration to excavate Lunar regolith from a planar surface and transport it through pipes upwards against gravity. The problem is addressed through the simultaneous exploitation of experiments and computer-based DEM simulations. The effect of vibrations is quantified by estimating the mass flowrate of material exiting the end of the vibrating pipe. Given the multi-dimensional nature of the space of parameters (including but not limited to the effects of the frequency, amplitude and direction of vibrations, the inclination of the pipe and the microphysical nature of the considered Lunar regolith simulant) a logical approach is implemented by which one parameter is varied while the others are kept constant. Building on previous experimental results, simulations are designed with frequencies in the range of 40,50…150Hz applied to the simplified case of 90um spherical particles in cylindrical pipes of inclinations of 1,5 and 10 degrees from the horizontal. Considered also is the direction vibration is applied with inclinations of 0, 10, 20 and 30 degrees relative to the vertical being investigated. For each frequency the vibration intensity is increased in the range of 2 - 6g to ascertain its effect on the dynamics at play. Polydisperse mixtures of 60um and 90um spherical and spheropolyhedron particles are also tested as incremental steps towards the simulation of real regolith particles. A kaleidoscope of regimes is identified. These differ in terms of continuous or discrete transport of the material inside the pipe, laminar or chaotic particle motion, heaping effects and direction of particle motion. The numerical simulations are used to elaborate possible interpretations for the experimental trends. A general correlation is introduced linking the experimentally-determined mass flow rate to the investigated parameters to help inform the engineering design of a promising ISRU-oriented space technology.