Fluid Dynamic Analysis of a Modified Mechanical Stirring Spouted Bed: Effect of Particle Properties and Stirring Rotation

The purpose of this study is to perform the fluid dynamic analysis of a modified mechanical stirring spouted bed, which has been proposed as a promising alternative to the conventional spouted bed. Thus, a comparison is also performed between the dynamic behaviors of such equipment. The addition of the stirrer to the spouted bed enhanced the movement of particles in the bed. The mechanical stirring spouted bed presented better performance than the conventional configuration at stirrer rotations above 90 rpm. Small particles were less susceptible to the effect of stirrer rotation than large particles, demanding a higher rotation to provide a lower minimum air flow rate. The proposed model provided good predictions in terms of maximum pressure drop and minimum air velocity in the modified mechanical stirring spouted bed. The findings of this study contribute to the development of versatile and promising equipment for different processes and operations, providing the key parameters for an appropriate design.