Drag model validation of slurry pipeline using CFD

Abstract

A number of drag models have been suggested for the interaction of fluid particles in slurry flow over the previous centuries. It is necessary to examine the correctness and applicability of these models in the slurry transportation. Based on this concept, a comparative analysis of the different drag models is performed for the 0.0549 m diameter slurry pipeline. The research is carried out by using three drag models: Syamlal-obrien, Schiller-naumann and Gidaspow due to their accessibility in the Fluent commercial software. The simulation is performed at mean flow velocity range, Vm= 2–5 ms-1 and solid concentration range, Cvf = 10– 20% (by volume) using computational drag models. The simulated outcomes for solid particle size 440 μm having density 2470 kg/m3 are recorded using Eulerian two-phase model with selected drag models in the computational domain. It has been found that the Eulerian two-phase model with Syamlal O’brien drag model gives the accurate and meticulous results with the published data in the literature. Finally, the simulated outcomes of solid concentration contours, solid concentration profiles and pressure drop are predicted at distinct velocity and solid concentration range for chosen drag models.