Three-dimensional simulation of the particle distribution in a downer using CFD–DEM and comparison with the results of ECT experiments

A three-dimensional numerical model of the down-flow fluidized bed (Downer) with a newly designed distributor was applied to investigate the particle distribution profiles using combined computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and the discrete element method (DEM). A realistic model of DEM, which calculates the contact force acting on the individual particles, is used to monitor the movement of individual particles in the bed. The contact force is calculated using the concepts of the spring, dash-pot, and friction slider. The flow field of gas is predicted by the Navier–Stokes equation. This CFD–DEM model provides information regarding the particle movement and distribution, the particle velocity, and the gas velocity in the bed under different air-particle mixture conditions. The results demonstrate that the air supply conditions directly influence the particle distribution uniformity. Furthermore, the numerical predictions for the axial and radial profiles of the particle distribution were found to agree well with the experimental results obtained by electrical capacitance tomography (ECT).