Fluctuation analysis and spatial distribution model of particle concentration in a lab-scale scrubbing-cooling chamber.

The motion and distribution of ash from coal gasification during the scrubbing and cooling process are crucial for revealing the fluid flow pattern and improving the efficiency of multiphase separation. Experimental measurements of the local solid holdup (ε s) in the liquid pool of a laboratory-scale gas-liquid-solid three-phase scrubbing-cooling chamber were carried out using an optical fiber probe. The fluctuations of ε s in time and frequency domains under different operating conditions were discussed. The axial and radial distribution of ε s was quantitatively analyzed. The results showed that inter-particle collision and particle-fluid interaction are the key factors leading to a fluctuation in particle concentration. Axial uniformity of particle concentration can be quantified by solid-phase volume fraction, particle Reynolds number, Archimedes number, and Morton number; ε s in different regions is expressed according to the degree of influence of bubble wake as a correlation equation consisting only of cross-sectional average solid holdup and dimensionless radial position; a dimensionless expression for ε s concerning operating conditions was established. [Display omitted] • The particle concentration fluctuation and distribution uniformity were studied. • The correlation equation of Ho quantifies the uniformity of the axial distribution of ε s. • The application of the radial distribution model of ε s expressed by ε s ¯ and r / R is extended. • The established power-law expressions for ε s predict well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]