Numerical simulation of flow behavior of particles in an inverse liquid–solid fluidized bed with a jet using CFD-DEM

Abstract

Flow behavior of particles in an inverse fluidized bed with a jet is simulated by means of DEM-CFD. The lubrication forces are considered. By changing the jet velocity, the distribution of particles is obtained within the bed. The distributions of velocity and concentration of particles are analyzed at different jet velocities. The rotational and translational granular temperatures are calculated in an inverse fluidized bed with a jet. Simulations indicate that the flow behavior of particles is divided into three stages: particles flow downward; particles flow upwards and a dynamic balance is reached in the bed. Quality of fluidization can be improved through increasing jet speed, liquid viscosity, restitution coefficient of particles and particle density. An agreement between the numerical simulation and experimental results has been achieved in an inverse liquid–solid fluidized bed.