Fluid bed characterization using Electrical Capacitance Volume Tomography (ECVT), compared to CPFD Software's Barracuda

Abstract

Being able to accurately predict the performance and operation of multiphase flow systems continues to be a significant challenge. In order to continue the advancement of knowledge and to develop better models, a 10 cm diameter fluidized bed of 185 μm glass beads was used along with an Electrical Capacitance Volume Tomography (ECVT) sensor and high speed pressure measurements. Three dimensional images of the gas–solid flow structure were obtained and analyzed as well as frequency information from the high speed pressure transducers. The experimental data was then compared to four computational models performed with CPFD Software's Barracuda code exploring different techniques to handle the perforated distributor plate. • Barracuda CFD model results were compared to ECVT and pressure measurements. • Four different methods were used to model the distributor plate. • The results indicate that modeling the plenum produces the most accurate model as compared to experiments.