Discrete element method simulations have increasingly gained importance to solve many complex granular flow systems. The outcome of the simulation depends on the input parameters and the contact models that are used. To gain insight into the flow of granular material as a function of different contact models two different systems have been studied.

The paper focuses on a biaxial shear tester as well as on a rotating drum to show the influence of different contact laws for low as well as high shear environments.

The variation in the flow behavior of granular material is shown when applying four contact models for particle-particle interactions i.e. linear, Hertzian, Luding's and Burger's contact models to particles in the two testers.