Numerical investigation on flow characteristics in a novel desulfurization reactor with structure optimization

Abstract

In order to solve the problems of high cost and large size of traditional desulfurization towers, a novel type of miniaturized desulfurization reactor filled by corrugated plates is proposed in which the con-current contacting mode of gases and liquids is allowed. Both physical experiments and numerical simulations of cold models are carried out firstly. Experimental data show that bar-shaped corrugated plates will directly lead the multiphase flow to the reactor boundary and thus cause an unexpected reduction of mixing and residence time of both phases. The phenomenon is duplicated through numerical simulations and the accuracy of the numerical model is also validated. Solutions to aforementioned problem are provided and discussed via more numerical simulations. Numerical results show that the adoption of V-shaped corrugated plates can greatly enhance the mixing and residence time of the two-phase flow. Moreover, the optimal angle of the V-shaped corrugated plates is also determined to meet the design requirements about the overall pressure drop. The results of this paper can provide theoretical support for the development and optimization of new desulfurization reactors.