Influence of ring-type internals on axial pressure distribution in circulating fluidized bed

In order to improve non-uniform radial and axial flow structure of a circulating fluidized bed, the influence of ring-type internals on the axial pressure distribution and gas-solids flow structure in a riser of 7.6 cm in diameter and 3 m in height was investigated experimentally. Four different opening areas, 70%, 80%, 90% and 95%, were used and the superficial gas velocity and solids circulation rate were in the ranges of 5 to 10 m/s and 20 to 233 kg/m²·s, respectively. With the presence of internals, the axial pressure gradient distribution shows the formation of a zigzag type profile instead of the regular exponential or S-shape profile and the bottom acceleration region is shortened. The opening ratio of the rings plays an important role in affecting the flow structure. The optimal opening ratio is tightly related to the operating conditions. In the circulation fluidized bed used in this study, 90% open area was found to be most suitable for obtaining a more uniform gas-solids flow structure.