DISCRETE PARTICLE SIMULATION OF FLOW PATTERNS IN 2-DIMENSIONAL GAS-FLUIDIZED BEDS

The flow patterns in two-dimensional gas fluidized bed were simulated numerically by the Distinct Element Method. Gas is issued through the entire width of the base with uniform velocity. Several flow patterns, such as slugging and bubbling, are observed in the results. As the gas flow rate increases, the flow pattern changes from slugging to bubbling. It is confirmed that particle mixing is promoted by bubbling. The flow pattern of bubbling is irregular in comparison with the case of gas injection through a central nozzle which was simulated in our previous study.