Modeling and analysis of dilute phase pneumatic conveying of fine particles

Mathematical models of pneumatic conveying in dilute mode of flow have been presented by many researchers. Continuum approach is the most commonly used approach of modeling this kind of flow. In the present work a mathematical model has been developed which is in the form of governing equations such as continuity, momentum and energy equation. Energy equation has been written including a parameter called granular temperature. In this model, the dilute mode of conveying has been described as chaotically moving particles as granular gas characterized by granular temperature. Simulations have been performed in order to predict different parameters. The predicted pressure drop values were found to be in good agreement with the experimental data. Variations of important parameters such as absolute pressure, granular temperature along the length of the pipeline have been analyzed for different values of normal and restitution coefficients.