CFD-DEM modelling and analysis of sand screen performance in the petroleum industry

This thesis presents a comprehensive evaluation of sand screen performance for sand control application. This is done by the combined approach of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and discrete element method (DEM). It examines all the important aspects of sand screen system such as screen geometries, sand properties, screen types and fluid rheology. The particle-fluid flow and force structures in sand screens are systematically analyzed, aims to understand the fundamentals governing the sand screen performance. This study helps not only to better understand sand screens but also design, control and optimize this important flow system.