Abstract
Both fast and turbulent fluidized beds exhibit entrainment, but the
differences in the flow phenomena are not well understood. This study
targeted a comparative analysis of the cluster (or streamer), mass flux,
and segregation datasets from these two fluidization regimes. The
particle systems were narrow particle size distributions (PSDs), binary
mixtures, or broad PSDs of Geldart Group B particles. Relative to the
fast fluidized bed, the turbulent bed exhibited (i) higher cluster
probability and frequency, but lower cluster duration; (ii) lower local
mass flux; and (iii) similar segregation extents. Regarding clusters,
the relative dominance of the variables on probability was similar for
both regimes, but there was a difference for probability and frequency.
For overall mass flux, particle-related properties were more dominant
with the turbulent bed. As for segregation, the radial position was the
most influential in the fast fluidized bed, but the least in the
turbulent one.