Investigation of the mean and turbulent particle velocity fields in a spouted bed using radioactive particle tracking

A non invasive experimental Radioactive Particle Tracking method (R.P.T.) was used to determine the three-dimensional mean and turbulent particle velocity fields in a spouted bed. The local statistical properties were evaluated with approximately one million data obtained on typically 6 hours of particle tracking. Radial profiles of first and second order moments of the particle velocity field are presented in the spout, the annulus and the fountain region on several axial sections. In addition to the complete description of the solids mean flow pattern, the relevance of a strong anisotropy behavior for particle turbulence field was well established. Thus, this study constitutes an original experimental investigation needed both for a better physical understanding and refined flow modelling of gas-solid flows in spouted beds.