Particle transport in a bottom-feed separation vessel

Abstract

A two-dimensional, axisymmetric numerical model of particle separation in a bottom-feed separation vessel is presented. The model includes six separate particle classes and assumes that the settling velocity of each particle class is sufficiently small when compared to the high inflow turbulence levels that the effect of the particles on turbulence can be neglected. Low particle settling velocities coupled with low particle volume fractions allows application of a drift-flux multi-phase model. The comparison between numerical results and measured plant data is in good agreement for overflow of all particle classes. Results of simulations show that bottom feeding results in a negatively buoyant, particle-laden jet being formed in the core of the vessel. The fraction of large particles that is carried out through the overflow is found to be critically dependent on the inlet velocity. The most effective way to reduce carry-over of large particles at the same time as maintaining through-put is to increase the diameter of the inlet feed pipe. | A two-dimensional, axisymmetric numerical model of particle separation in a bottom-feed separation vessel is presented. The model includes six separate particle classes and assumes that the settling velocity of each particle class is sufficiently small when compared to the high inflow turbulence levels that the effect of the particles on turbulence can be neglected. Low particle settling velocities coupled with low particle volume fractions allows application of a drift-flux multi-phase model. The comparison between numerical results and measured plant data is in good agreement for overflow of all particle classes. Results of simulations show that bottom feeding results in a negatively buoyant, particle-laden jet being formed in the core of the vessel. The fraction of large particles that is carried out through the overflow is found to be critically dependent on the inlet velocity. The most effective way to reduce carry-over of large particles at the same time as maintaining through-put is to increase the diameter of the inlet feed pipe.