Hydrodynamic Characterization of a Shallow Rectangular Spouted Bed Using Bed Pressure Signals and Image Processing Methods

Abstract

To support the design of spouted bed reactors, experiments are performed in a rectangular spouted bed to measure the peak pressure drop (ΔPmax) and the internal and external spouting velocities (Uis and Ues). Four particle types spanning under Geldart D and B are used. Uis and Ues are measured from bed pressure drop and expansion ratio profiles, respectively, with the Ues/Uis ratio of each particle type obtained. Correlations predicting the ΔPmax of Geldart D and B particles are developed by reviewing published correlations and investigating the nozzle effect. Good prediction is achieved with a slope of 0.997 and an adjusted R2 of 0.998 in a 95% confidence interval. Ues is predicted through correlations developed by adding effects of dp/Di and H0 in the Mathur–Gishler equation. The calculated Ues agrees well with the experimental data, achieving a slope of 0.998 and an adjusted R2 of 0.998 in a 95% confidence interval.