Numerical analysis of the air velocity profile in a pilot scale fluidized bed

BERTIN, DIEGO E.; BUCALÁ, VERÓNICA; RENAUDO, CARLOS A.

Buenos Aires

Conferencia; 2016 Convergence - ESSS Conference & Ansys Users Meeting; 2016

ESSS

In this work, CFD simulations of the air velocity profile in a pilot scale fluidized bed were carried out in Ansys-Fluent 17.0. The mathematical model was validated against experimental data obtained from a pilot scale fluidized bed. Formation of dead zones within the plenum were identified, those which affects the air velocity field uniformity in the vicinity of the gas distributor. Later, new plenum designs were proposed to enhance the air distribution system. This study is part of a more extensive project aimed to understand in more detail the influence of the fluid dynamic conditions on the fluidized bed behavior when it is used for particles granulation.