This example demonstrates how to set up data for fluid flow and thermal contact. Several cases will be considered demonstrating different models and the effect of different contact properties on the results.

 

The 2D geometries and conditions for this example are kept simple for the sake of facilitating interpretation of the results and understanding the effects of the contact properties. The geometry considers a 2000 m wide x 4000 high sediment column intersected by an inclined fault at its mid height. Normal displacement is constrained at the sides and base boundaries. A stress load is applied at the top in order to ensure contact at fault interfaces. After initialization, 10 MPa and 0 MPa of pore pressure are prescribed at the bottom and top boundaries respectively. A thermal flux is prescribed at the bottom boundary whereas the top surface is prescribed 0 oC.

 

For the sake of simplicity the material properties consider isotropic elasticity and constant isotropic permeability. In addition volume strain coupling with the fluid flow is neglected to avoid any pore pressure generation due to the stress load. Gravity load is also neglected.

 

Problem geometry and boundary conditions

 

 

 

The data files for the examples are found in: ParaGeo Examples\General Examples\Cont_002\Data

 

Simulation Cases

 

Case01 Constant contact properties for fluid and thermal contact

 

Case02 Contact tangential flow conductivity as a function of stress

 

Case03 Contact tangential flow conductivity as a function of depth

 

Case04 Contact tangential flow conductivity as a function of contact gap

 

Case05 Contact normal flow conductivity as a function of depth

 

Case06 Contact flow conductivity multiplier