Computational fluid dynamics simulations of snow accumulation on infrared detection sensors using discrete phase model

Abstract Snow accumulation during winters poses significant challenges to realization of engineering applications, such as operation of infrared detection sensors. This paper presents the utility of coupled computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations and discrete phase model (DPM) to predict the occurrence of snow accumulation on infrared detection sensors installed in electronic toll-collection systems. The optimum shape of the cover protecting the sensor from snow particles has been numerically investigated. To this end, the cross-sectional shape of the cover was first optimized by performing two-dimensional simulations of seven different snow-cover shapes, of which two were shortlisted. Thereafter, the effect of shape modifications on snow accumulation was investigated in the light of three-dimensional simulation results. As observed, the proposed optimum snow cover significantly reduces the number of snow particles affecting the sensor when compared to the case with no cover installed. Finally, the effect of the optimum cover design was confirmed by performing field observations using mock-ups under actual snowing conditions. Results of this study indicate the effectiveness of a double-plate structure in protecting infrared sensors from incident snow particles. The authors believe this study could serve as a reference generic strategy for employing the CFD–DPM combination to solve engineering problems encountered in regions that experience heavy snowfall.