AC Groningen, The Netherlands. This model has the advantage of clarity and intuitive appeal. Moreover, the method of solution of the model is far simpler and more powerful than for the traditional modelling approach based on conservation equations. After presentation of the model and the method of solution, predictions for the transient axial distribution of tracer particles in a fluidized bed are shown graphically. Predicted RTD curves are also shown graphically and compared with experimental data from the literature.
Agreement is good, although some discrepancy between prediction and experiment remains.
A discussion is provided. The range of application of fluidized beds in the processing industry is, in spite of some difficulties with design and scale-up, increasing rapidly. At the same time there is a general trend towards process miniaturization and intensification. Continuously operated gas fluidized beds with a good gas-solid contacting, that is with only a small fraction of the gas bypassing the bed in fluidization bubbles, are therefore attractive. In such processes, the quality and uniformity of the particulate product depends on the particle RTD in the bed.