Distribution of Gas Flow Parameters in Mass Transfer Columns with Regularly Spaced Shelves

Abstract

Laminar and turbulent flows in channels with regularly spaced shelves symmetrically separated with an axial grid are numerically modeled using stream function–vortex strength Navier–Stokes equations. Flow velocity distribution in the initial and steady state regions is derived for laminar flow. Basic dynamic parameters of turbulent flow (velocity profiles, stream-function isolines, vortex strength, turbulent kinetic energy, turbulence scale, and effective viscosity) are calculated using the K–e model and the Kolmogorov–Prandtl closure. Stagnant and circulation zones form in both zigzag channels and channels with horizontal shelves, suggesting that the relevant computational algorithms and programs can be unified.