Numerical investigation of collection parameters on hydraulic collection and flow field characteristics for the dual-jets based technology

Abstract

In the context of polymetallic nodule collection, current mainstream research focuses on hydraulic collection methods. Among these, the dual jets hydraulic collection method stands out for its high collection efficiency. In this study, the dual jets collection method is investigated using orthogonal design methodology to formulate 25 sets of cases for five collection parameters. (jet velocity, suction velocity, height above bottom, jet angle, and nozzle spacing). Through numerical simulation, the characteristics of vertical force on fixed particle at the bottom and the flow characteristics derived from various cases are investigated. Employing the intuitive analytical approach, a comprehensive sensitivity analysis on the five collection parameters is performed. Subsequent analysis of variance confirmed that jet velocity is a dominant factor influencing the relative vertical impulse (I) exerted on stationary particle. On this basis, an analysis of the impact of key factor on collection capability is conducted, thereby identifying the effective value scope for the key parameters.