Process intensification in a gas–solid vortex unit : computational fluid dynamics model based analysis and design

Vandewalle, Laurien A.; Gonzalez-Quiroga, Arturo; Perreault, Patrice; Van Geem, Kevin M.; Marin, Guy B.

doi:10.1021/ACS.IECR.9B01566

Title

Process intensification in a gas–solid vortex unit : computational fluid dynamics model based analysis and design

Author

Vandewalle, Laurien A.

Gonzalez-Quiroga, Arturo

Perreault, Patrice

Van Geem, Kevin M.

Marin, Guy B.

Abstract

The process intensification abilities of gas–solid vortex units (GSVU) are very promising for gas–solid processes. By working in a centrifugal force field, much higher gas–solid slip velocities can be obtained compared to gravitational fluidized beds, resulting in a significant increase in heat and mass transfer rates. In this work, local azimuthal and radial particle velocities for an experimental GSVU are simulated using the Euler–Euler framework in OpenFOAM and compared with particle image velocimetry measurements. With the validated model, the effect of the particle diameter, number of inlet slots and reactor length on the bed hydrodynamics is assessed. Starting from 1g-Geldart-B type particles, increasing the particle diameter or density, increasing the number of inlet slots or increasing the gas injection velocity leads to an increased bed stability and uniformity. However, a trade-off has to be made since increased bed stability and uniformity lead to higher shear stresses and attrition.

Language

English

Source (journal)

Industrial and engineering chemistry research. - Washington, D.C., 1987, currens

Publication

Washington, D.C. : 2019

ISSN

0888-5885 [print]

1520-5045 [online]

DOI

10.1021/ACS.IECR.9B01566

Volume/pages