This paper reports the process and conclusions of computational fluid dynamics
(CFD) modelling performed to understand and evaluate the events taking place
within the novel rotating coupon erosion-corrosion test apparatus.
The test method utilises a rotating coupon being spun at high speed in a high
weight % sand slurry for a fixed duration. Under specific conditions the
phenomenon of erosion-corrosion is studied. For this to happen impingement of
the sand on the test specimen is required. The CFD modelling has evaluated the
system to allow for sand concentrations and impingement rates at the rotating
coupon’s surface to be approximated.
The computational model has been constructed and solved using a commercial
numerical toolkit. The model resolves the hydrodynamics of the system including
the effect of turbulence and accounts for the relative motion of the sand through
the algebraic slip model. Algebraic slip accounts for the differential velocities of
the primary and secondary components, but uses a single velocity vector that
represents the mixture averaged velocity to make conclusions. The outputs from
the model include concentration profiles, flow patterns, particle distribution and
impingement rates.
In combination with the observed test method baselines and performance of
corrosion inhibitors, it is possible to develop a hypothesis on the occurrences in
the test and the mode of action that the inhibitors function by.
Keywords: Erosion-corrosion, computational fluid dynamics, modelling,
impingement, corrosion inhibitors