Measurement of Particle Velocities in Conical Spouted Beds Using an Optical Fiber Probe

The vertical components of particle velocities in the spout and annular zones of conical spouted beds have been experimentally determined for different values both of contactor geometric factors (angle and air inlet diameter) and of operating conditions (particle diameter, stagnant bed height, and air velocity) by means of an optical fiber probe. Based on the effect of the operating variables on the longitudinal and radial profiles of the particle velocities, a correlation has been determined for their calculation at any position in the spout zone. The correlation proposed by Németh and Pallai for the calculation of the average particle velocity at the wall in cylindrical spouted beds has been proven to be valid in conical spouted beds.