Dynamic behavior of floating ferrofluid droplet through an orifice with a magnetic field

Abstract

In this study, we utilize the simplified lattice Boltzmann method (SLBM) to investigate numerically the motion of buoyancy-driven deformable ferrofluid droplets through the orifice of varying widths and depths in two-dimensional (2D) space. Positioned directly beneath a plate with a central hole, the magnetic fluid droplets undergo acceleration to meet the plate under the influence of buoyancy and magnetic forces. We investigate the impact of magnetic field strength (Bo_m), pore ratio (PR), plate thickness ratio (WR), droplet viscosity (Re), and the plate's wettability (contact angle) on the dynamic behavior of ferrofluid droplets ascending through the orifice. Our results reveal significant effects on the efficiency and morphology of ferrofluid droplets passing through the hole. The introduction of a magnetic field facilitates a larger volume of liquid droplets passing through the hole at PR = 0.25. Moreover, increasing magnetic field intensity leads to the generation of secondary droplets during passage through the orifice. In practical applications, to prevent the generation of secondary droplets, we recommend Bo_m < 3 when the pore ratio falls within 0.35 < PR < 0.45 and plate thickness ratio WR = 1. Additionally, with increasing obstacle thickness, ferrofluid droplets on the hydrophobic wall can pass through the orifice more easily. Furthermore, when the magnetic field strength exceeds a certain threshold (Bo_m = 6.08), the droplets can pass through the orifice regardless of the wall's hydrophilicity or hydrophobicity. For practical applications with the pore ratio PR = 0.25 and plate thickness ratio WR > 1, we suggest Bo_m > 3.