Three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) study of the gas-particle circulation pattern within a fluidized bed granulator: By full factorial design of fluidization velocity and particle size

The fluidization velocity and mean particle size were selected to be numerically investigated pertaining to their effects on the gas-particle circulation pattern within a fluidized bed granulator by three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation applying an Eulerian-Eulerian two-fluid model. The CFD simulations were designed by full factorial design method and the developed CFD model was experimentally validated. The fluidization process was proved to reach a quasi-steady state. The gas-particle circulation pattern and particle concentration distribution were analyzed based on fluidization velocity and mean particle size. A mathematical model was developed to provide guidance on how to change fluidization level during one experiment.