Numerical simulation of the NETL Small-scale Challenge Problem 1 using CFD-DEM and TFM approaches

The complexity of interactions between the fluid and particle phase in the fluidized bed makes the experiment and computational modeling challenging. In this work, the gas-solid fluidized bed hydrodynamic characteristics are predicted in 0.23 m × 1.22 m × 0.0375 m 3D rectangular column using the Two-Fluid Model (TFM) and Computational Fluid Dynamics Discrete Element (CFD-DEM) coupling model. Geldart D particles having an average diameter of 3256 μm are selected for the simulations. Both the approaches closely predicted the solid flow pattern and slugging behavior inside the bed. Furthermore, particles in the bed center move upwards, whereas particles near the wall move downwards. The predicted horizontal and vertical particle velocity results are validated against experimental data. The CFD-DEM represents greater accuracy in predicting the particle velocity with a minimal error near the wall.