Predictive modelling approach for cottonseed plug velocity applying a circuit theory analogy

Abstract

In this study, a circuit theory analogy was used to investigate plug behaviour in dense phase pneumatic conveying of cottonseeeds. It was found that the time series aeration/deaeration pressure drop of a fixed bed exhibits exponential behaviour, similar to the charging/discharging of a capacitor in a circuit. Using this analogy, the pressure drop below transition superficial air velocity was considered equivalent to the potential voltage across a capacitor over time. By extending this analogy beyond transition superficial air, a potential pressure drop was introduced and found to separate from the measured pressure drop at the moment the plug moves. It was demonstrated that the difference between the potential and measured pressure drop can be scaled to the plug velocity, indicating a linear relationship between these variables. This approach provides a novel method for understanding and predicting plug behaviour in pneumatic conveying, which may have practical applications for various types of other materials.