Abstract
In this work we present a mathematical model to simulate the distribution of solid phase in slurry bubble columns with a conical entrance section. The model is based on the sedimentation—dispersion model that is commonly used to simulate solids distribution in cylindrical columns. The model equations are obtained from a mass balance of solids expressed in terms of a cross-sectional average of the solids concentration. The resulting differential equations are integrated numerically. We have used the model to analyze the effect of the taper angle of a conical distributor on the suspension of solids in a cylindrical spouted bed with pilot scale dimensions. The effects of gas and slurry flow rates, and average and feed solids concentration are also studied. The results show that there is a range of operating conditions for which the solids concentration profile exhibits a maximum within the conical region. For sufficiently high solids concentration, the vicinity of this maximum would be the place where sedimentation of the solid phase starts.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 157-170 |
| Number of pages | 14 |
| Journal | Chemical Engineering Communications |
| Volume | 138 |
| Issue number | 1 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - Jun 20 1995 |
| Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Sedimentation-dispersion model
- Slurry bubble column
- Spouted bed
- Tapered column
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Chemistry
- General Chemical Engineering