Residence time distribution studies in air table

Abstract

ABSTRACT Using coal as feed material and sodium chloride (density and size same as high ash-containing particles in coal feed) as a tracer, residence time distribution (RTD) studies have been carried out in air table. Residence time of particles plays a key role pertaining to density wise segregation on air table. Parameters i.e. air flow rate, side tilt and vibration frequency have strong effect on residence time of particles on air table so their effect was studied using tracer technique. Experimentation was carried out and RTD curves were obtained to find the effect of said parameters on residence time of particles. The residence time of tracer particles increased and span time decreased with increase in the air flow rate, vibration frequency and side tilt. Simulating fundamental force balance equations, explanation of parameters effect on residence time was done. Using dispersion mathematical model, simulated RTD curve was calculated for low air flow rate and validated with the experimental results.