On interaction models for numerical simulations of bubbling and turbulent fluidized beds: Flow hydrodynamics and reactor performance

Abstract

Computational fluid dynamics is a powerful tool for designing, optimizing, and scaling up bubbling and turbulent fluidized beds. The two-fluid model is widely used due to its computational efficiency, but its accuracy depends on proper constitutive closures, particularly for inter-particle, particle-wall, and inter-phase interactions. The effects of these interactions on hydrodynamics are well-studied, but research on their influence on the reaction behavior of Geldart A particles in bubbling and turbulent fluidized beds remains limited. This study systematically examines their impact on hydrodynamics and reactor performance, validated by experiments. Results indicate that particle-wall interactions have the greatest influence, followed by inter-phase interactions, while particle-particle effects are relatively minor. A refined two-fluid model was developed, showing strong agreement with experimental data across a range of superficial gas velocities. This study provides new insights into the behavior of Geldart A particles in bubbling and turbulent fluidized beds and offers guidelines for accurate simulations.