Analysis of hydrodynamic processes in a fluidized bed

Abstract

Relevance: in the field of thermal power engineering, one of the key issues is the effective combustion of fuel, maximizing heat transfer, and reducing emissions. To address these challenges, technologies based on fluidized beds play a significant role in improving the performance of energy systems. A fluidized bed is a complex hydrodynamic environment consisting of a mixture of gas and fine particles, through which heat and mass transfer processes occur with high efficiency. Studying the hydrodynamic processes in fluidized beds, modeling them mathematically, and implementing them in practice is of strategic importance for modernizing thermal power systems, improving their efficiency, and ensuring ecological sustainability.

Aim: to study the hydrodynamic processes arising from the interaction between gas and solid particles in a fluidized bed, to perform mathematical modeling, and to identify the key factors influencing system performance based on experimental results.

Methods: theoretical study of the physical and mechanical properties of the fluidized bed and an overview of its types. Calculations are carried out based on parameters such as particle diameter and density, gas velocity, Reynolds and Nusselt numbers, and porosity (ε) of the fluidized bed. Additionally, the variation of the bed’s hydraulic resistance depending on the flow velocity is analyzed through corresponding graphs.

Results: the basic operating principle of systems with a fluidized bed is described, along with the main characteristics specific to fluidized beds during fuel combustion. The required particle sizes for effective operation within the bed are also provided. The graph of hydraulic resistance variation depending on the bed velocity is presented, and a hydrodynamic analysis of the fluidized bed is conducted.