Numerical investigation into the flow field characteristics of an abrasive foam jet

Using foam as the jet medium can significantly reduce water consumption while mitigating dust pollution generated by abrasive air jets. In this study, to reveal the flow field characteristics of abrasive foam jets, a numerical model is established, using the discrete phase model to describe the motion of abrasive particles in the jet. The macroscopic characteristics of the flow field in abrasive foam jets are illustrated. The motion characteristics of both the fluid and abrasive are analyzed. The results indicate that low-density abrasive foam jets exhibit the highest jet velocity and optimal particle acceleration effects. Compared with an abrasive water jet, the fluid velocity and abrasive velocity of an abrasive foam jet are increased by 14.53% and 17.93%, respectively. The acceleration efficiency of foam on abrasives reaches as high as 0.97. The abrasive transport trajectory is very complex. Increasing the nozzle pressure drop, reducing the mass flow rate of the abrasive, and increasing the foam quality can enhance the velocity of both the fluid and abrasive particles. Foam demonstrates superior acceleration effects on low-density particles. For an abrasive density of 1060 kg/m3, the abrasive velocity is 224.72 m/s. These findings provide a theoretical foundation for advancing the application of abrasive foam jets.