Flow pattern optimization of a sieve plate extraction column using CFD simulation and PIV measurement
Document Type
Conference Proceeding
Publication Date
5-29-2012
Abstract
Flow pattern optimization of the continuous phase in a sieve plate extraction column was performed using computational fluid dynamics simulation and particle image velocimetry (PIV) measurement. Flow pattern of a sieve plate extraction column (SPEC) with traditional configuration was simulated and it was found that there was a very large reverse flow region between every two plates. Flow pattern was then optimized to minimize reverse flow area since the reverse flow can decrease the mass transfer efficiency. Step by step, internal structure of the column was modified to minimize the reverse flow area and with the modification, flow pattern of the continuous phase was optimized. The strategies consist of inclining downcomers, adding diversion baffles, slotting the downcomers and diversion baffles, adjusting the number and size of slots and fixing small baffles laterally at the top slots on downcomers. In the course of evolution, five generations (11 types) of SPEC with different internal configuration were proposed and flow patterns in these columns were studied. An optimal flow pattern nearly no reverse flow region was obtained. PIV experiments of three types of columns in 11 were carried out and showed that the results of simulations and experiments were in good agreement. Mass transfer efficiency was improved as the flow pattern was optimized. The flow pattern optimization strategies can be extended to the design of other process equipment such as distillation and reaction. This is an abstract of a paper presented at the 2012 AIChE Spring National Meeting and 8th Global Congress on Process Safety (Houston, TX 4/1-5/2012).
Identifier
84861448767 (Scopus)
ISBN
[9780816910717]
Publication Title
12aiche 2012 Aiche Spring Meeting and 8th Global Congress on Process Safety Conference Proceedings
Recommended Citation
Duan, Changchun; Wang, Bing; Liu, Chunjiang; and Yuan, Xigang, "Flow pattern optimization of a sieve plate extraction column using CFD simulation and PIV measurement" (2012). Faculty Publications. 18246.
https://digitalcommons.njit.edu/fac_pubs/18246
