Jet configuration for improved fluidized bed stripping

The effects of steam injection on stripping efficiency were studied in an effort to improve operation of a fluidized bed stripper. Experiments extend earlier measurements in a geometrically and dynamically scaled half-column [I. Rose, H. Cui, T. Zhang, C. McKnight, J.R. Grace, X.T. Bi, C.J. Lim, Toward an ultimate fluidized stripper, Powder Technol. 158 (1–3) (2005) 124–132]. In the present work, different jet/steam configurations were tested in a stripper equipped with mega-sheds, in an effort to greatly reduce stripper fouling while providing little or no reduction in stripping efficiency. Results indicate that a combination of spargers, jets sweeping across the top of the sheds and additional staggered jets provides a promising configuration, giving stripping efficiencies similar to those of the original commercial design while being much more tolerant to accumulation of foulant.