Using Distinct Element Method (DEM) have been carried out to
investigate the effect of cohesion on the flowability of
polydisperse particulate systems and seems to be a promising
approach for making an elaborated model to describe the soil–
tool (sweep) interaction. Virtual DEM models were developed in
correspondence with the real tests. In this article we will
introduce the methods of how DEM approach was used in developing
a model for the prediction of draught force on cultivator
sweeps. The micro structure of soil is very complex and depends
on factors including water content, density, and other
conditions. The conventional approach to explore the mechanical
behavior of soil mainly relies on experimental shearing tests
under laboratory conditions. The implementation of DEM is
carried out by a series of numerical triaxial tests on granular
assemblies with varying confining pressures and bond conditions.
The results demonstrate that the numerical simulations can
produce correct responses of the soil behavior in general,
including the critical state response, as compared to
experimental observations using the Mohr circles. The influences
of cultivator sweep geometry was researched by DEM in 3D and
were correlated with the soil bin tests results.
