Fine Particle Classification using Fluidized Beds in Series
Abstract
Fluidized beds have been used for a variety of industrial applications. the potential use of two water fluidized beds in series for the classification of fine spherical glass particles is investigated here. the objective is to classify a wide distribution of particle sizes into a very narrow distribution having a specific target mean diameter. in the first fluidized bed, the upward water velocity is adjusted so that glass particles larger than the desired size settle to the bottom, while smaller particles are carried upward. the top fraction is sent to the second fluidized bed where the water velocity is adjusted so that particles smaller than that of the desired size are removed as the overflow and the particles with the desired size are collected at the bottom. This process was chosen from among many other processes because, although the particle sizes involved are very small, the throughput required is also comparatively small, eliminating the need to consider other processes for higher throughput. in addition, the cohesive nature of these small particles eliminates the feasibility of effectively using a dry separation process such as sieving. Initial results indicate that some degree of classification is possible, and future work will investigate increasing separation efficiency by adding inclined reflux plates and optimizing the system dimensions and fluid properties.
Recommended Citation
A. Pillai and K. H. Henthorn, "Fine Particle Classification using Fluidized Beds in Series," AIChE Annual Meeting, Conference Proceedings, American Institute of Chemical Engineers, Dec 2006.
Department(s)
Chemical and Biochemical Engineering
Document Type
Article - Conference proceedings
Document Version
Citation
File Type
text
Language(s)
English
Rights
© 2024 American Institute of Chemical Engineers, All rights reserved.
Publication Date
01 Dec 2006
