A model on attrition of quartzite particles as a bed material in fluidized beds

In this paper, a model on attrition of quartzite particles as an inert bed material in fluidized beds has been established on the particle–particle collision. For the convenience of describing the attrition of quartzite particles in fluidized beds, we chose the attrition rate constant (kARC) as one main characteristic parameter to develop the model.In order to verify the validity of the developed model, an attrition experiment of quartzite particles has been carried out in a lab-scale circulating fluidized bed. The predicted results from the population model were close to the experimental data as far as the engineering use is concerned. Finally, a sensitivity analysis was performed by using the developed model to examine effects of initial particle diameter, attrition time, and fluidization number on kARC.

Generally, particle attrition takes place through surface abrasion, i.e., very fine particles break away from surface of original particle. In fluidized beds, movements of particles are very vigorous, which might lead to a significant amount of particle collisions so as to give birth to attrition. Based on the particle–particle collision, a model on attrition of particles has been established.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide