Particle Velocity, Solids Hold-Up, and Solids Flux Distributions in Conical Spouted Beds Operating with Heavy Particles

Abstract

Conical spouted beds operating with high-density particles have recently gained attention because of their potential use as nuclear fuel coaters for next-generation nuclear reactors. To design, scale-up, and manufacture these coaters, detailed investigation of local flow structure is of paramount importance. Therefore, in this study, local instantaneous particle velocity and solids hold-up and flux measurements were carried out in spouted beds having a wide range of cone angles (30°, 45°, 60°) using zirconia particles (dp = 0.5, 1 mm; ρp = 6050 kg/m3). Effects of axial height, particle diameter, conical angle, and static bed height on local flow behavior were investigated. Comparisons were also made with the results of low-density particle studies. It is shown that particle velocity decreases and solids hold-up and flux increase along the bed height in the spout. The solids circulation is augmented as particle diameter and conical angle are decreased and static bed height is increased.