Our engaged experts use Discrete Element Method (DEM) to model the motion and interaction of large collections of discrete entities, simulate real particle shapes, and exactly model the contacts between arbitrarily complex particles and geometry components.
We use the findings to simulate and analyze the behavior of materials such as granular flows, powder processing, and the mechanics of soil excavation and transport. This allows our clients to quickly and efficiently understand, optimize and scale their processes to increase the service life of systems.
Our DEM services deliver innovative solutions across a wide range of industries help our clients improve processes, equipment performance and increase product quality.
How does the discrete element method benefit my business?
The commercial and industrial use of DEM has only been made possible by recent advances in computational capacity, particularly around the GPU technology space. These advances have made the true power of this methodology accessible and applicable to real-world scenarios. We can now tackle systems made up of millions of particles and model exact contacts with real particle shapes.
DEM can be used on its own to explore the design and optimization of processes and machinery in the mining, agricultural, and pharmaceutical industries. Alternatively, it can be combined with more commonly used methods such as Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) or Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to provide estimates on machine load, power consumption, and lifetime prediction.
For more information on how to use Discrete Element Modeling or to receive a quote, contact our experts today.
More Services

Digital Engineering Services
See how Element’s Digital Engineering team uses advanced engineering simulation services and artificial intelligence to solve complex challenges for a wide variety of industries.

Finite Element Analysis Services (FEA)
Element offers advanced numerical analysis service using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) techniques using industry standard software to predict the long term behavior of materials components and products when in service.

Optimization of Rock Crushing Equipment
Read our case study to learn how Element’s Digital Engineering team has recently worked with a global mining company to optimize the design of their rock crushing machines.

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
We use Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to simulate and analyze complex problems involving fluid-fluid, fluid-solid, and fluid-gas interactions.