Regulating Gas–Solid Fluidization in a Diameter-Transformed Dense Bed with Geldart A Particles

This challenge is particularly pronounced for geometries with diameter-transformed structures (i.e., the bottom section of transported risers and two- and multizone fluidized bed reactors) and for Geldart A solids, whose fine particle size and cohesive behavior produce complex, chaotic flow patterns.

In this work, we developed an approach that integrates cold-flow testing with CPFD simulations to regulate gas–solid fluidization in a 3D diameter-transformed dense fluidized bed reactor. We modified the Ergun-based drag model using pressure-drop measurements and implemented it in CPFD simulations. The model accurately reproduces experimental pressure drop and local solids holdup in a dense bed reactor containing 1.2 kg of Geldart A particles, demonstrating its predictive capability.