Heat Transfer in Fluidized Bed

Experiment Instructions
WL 225 Heat Transfer in

the Fluidised Bed
WL 225 HEAT TRANSFER IN THE FLUIDISED BED
All rights reserved, G.U.N.T. Gerätebau, Barsbüttel, Germany 07/2018
Experiment Instructions
Last modification by: Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Peter Mittasch
This manual must be kept by the unit.
Before operating the unit:

- Read this manual.
- All participants must be instructed on
handling of the unit and, where appropriate,
on the necessary safety precautions.
Version 0.3 Subject to technical alterations
i
Table of Contents
1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
2 Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
2.1 Intended Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
2.2 Structure of the Safety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
2.3 Safety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
2.4 Ambient Conditions for Operating and Storage Location . . . . . . . . . . 6
3 Unit Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
3.1 Layout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
3.2 Process Schematic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
3.3 Data Acquisition. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
3.3.1 Installation of the Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
3.3.2 Operating the Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
3.4 First Commissioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
3.5 Commissioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
3.5.1 Dismantling and Filling the Glass Cylinder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
3.5.2 Cleaning the Air Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
3.5.3 Emptying and Cleaning the Glass Cylinder . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
3.5.4 Cleaning the Sintered Plates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
4 Basic Principles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
4.1 Fluidised Beds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
4.2 Pressure Loss in Fluidised Beds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
4.3 Pressure Curve in the Fluidised Bed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
4.4 Fluidisation Velocity in the Fluidised Bed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
4.5 Heat Transfer in the Fluidised Bed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
ii
5 Experiments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
5.1 Experiment 1: Measuring the Pressure Loss. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
5.1.1 Experiment Aim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
5.1.2 Preparing the Experiment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
5.1.3 Performing the Experiment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
5.1.4 Measured Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
5.1.5 Evaluating the Experiment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
5.2 Experiment 2: Measuring the Pressure Distribution
in the Fluidised Bed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
5.2.1 Experiment Aim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

5.2.4 Measured Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
5.3 Experiment 3: Determining the Fluidisation Velocity . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
5.3.1 Experiment Aim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
5.3.4 Measured Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
5.4 Experiment 4: Measuring the Heat Transfer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
5.4.1 Experiment Aim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
5.4.4 Measured Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
5.5 Experiment 5: Heat Transfer in the Fluidised Bed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
5.5.1 Experiment Aim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
5.5.4 Measured Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
iii
6 Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
6.1 Technical Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
6.2 List of Formula Symbols and Units Used . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
6.3 Tables and Diagrams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
iv
1 Introduction
In fluidised beds, granules of a solid material are

held in suspension by a fluid flowing through the
bed. The solid material thus takes on the charac-
ter of a fluid. This applies both to the fluid
Bulk solid mechanic and thermodynamic properties of the
material.
Fluidised beds are in use in a wide range of appli-
cations in engineering, e.g.:
Gas flow
– Tempering baths with even temperature distri-

bution
– Powder coating plant
Large gas flow
– Drying plant
– Furnaces
Fluidised bed Using the unit WL 225 Heat Transfer in the Flu-
idised Bed experiments can be performed on
solid and fluidised masses of granulated solid
materials. In particular, the conditions that lead to
Medium gas flow the fluidised state or a fluidised bed can be inves-
tigated. Furthermore, experiments can be per-
formed on the heat transfer characteristics in a flu-
idised bed.
Packed bed
(fixed bed) The unit can be used for training in the areas of
thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and heat trans-
fer.
Small gas flow
Fig. 1.1 Fluidisation of solid material

masses
1 Introduction 1
Learning Objectives:
– basic information on the fluidisation of packed
beds
– pressure curve within the bed
– pressure losses depending on
• flow velocity
• particle size of the bulk solid
– determination of the fluidisation velocity
– heat transfer in the fluidised bed

• influence of the air flow rate on the heat
transfer
• influence of the heater position
• influence of the particle size
• determination of the heat transfer coefficient
The unit is designed as a table unit. All controls

and measuring devices are clearly laid out on a
panel. A light source fitted behind the glass meas-
uring cylinder enables the fluidisation process to
be observed with ease.
1 Introduction 2
2 Safety
2.1 Intended Use
The unit is to be used only for teaching purposes.
2.2 Structure of the Safety Instructions
The signal words DANGER, WARNING or

CAUTION indicate the probability and potential
severity of injury.
An additional symbol indicates the nature of the

hazard or a required action.
Signal word Explanation
Indicates a situation which, if not avoided, will result in

DANGER death or serious injury.
Indicates a situation which, if not avoided, may result in

WARNING death or serious injury.
Indicates a situation which, if not avoided, may result in

CAUTION minor or moderately serious injury.
Indicates a situation which may result in damage to

NOTICE equipment, or provides instructions on operation of
the equipment.
2 Safety 3
Symbol Explanation
Electrical voltage
Hot surface
Notice
Wear hand protection
2.3 Safety Instructions
WARNING
Electrical connections are exposed when the
rear panel is open.
Risk of electric shock.
• Disconnect the mains plug before opening the
rear panel.
• Work should only be performed by qualified
electricians.
• Protect electrical installations from moisture.
NOTICE
Fire hazard due to use of flammable gases or liq-
uids.
• Do not use flammable substances.
2 Safety 4
WARNING
Temperatures up to 200°C at the heater possi-
ble.
Risk of burns.
• Allow the glass cylinder and the heater to cool
before touching.
• Wear suitable gloves.
NOTICE
Overheating possible to the unit.
• Do not remove or adjust the safety devices
(safety valve / overheating protection).
NOTICE
This unit is intended for use of the supplied bulk
solids.
Damage to the heater and the temperature sen-
sor possible. Only use mineral bulk solids.
NOTICE
At high air flow rates, the filter may become
clogged by the large amount of material removed
from the mass, this can cause the safety valve to
trip.
• Avoid high flow rates.
• Clean the filter.
2 Safety 5
NOTICE
With very small size granules (<0,05mm, dusts),
it is very difficult to demonstrate a fluidised bed as
the material will tend to form clumps. This also
applies to damp materials.
2.4 Ambient Conditions for Operating and Storage Location
• Enclosed room.
• Free of dirt and moisture.

• Level and secure base.
• Frost free.
2 Safety 6
3 Unit Description
3.1 Layout
15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7
16
17
18 6
19
5
20
4
21
22
3
23
24 2
25
1
26 27 28 29
1 Compressed air connection 16 Temperature air inlet T3

2 Pressure reducing valve V2 17 Pressure fluidised bed P1
3 Safety valve V3 18 Power heater E1
4 Manometer distribution chamber P2 19 Air flow rate F1
5 Flowmeter F1 20 Heater power adjustment
6 Manometer inlet pressure P3 21 Switch for Heater
7 Air regulation valve V1 22 Switch for background lighting
8 Temperature sensor air inlet T3 23 Main switch
9 Pressure sensor P1 24 Background lighting
10 Temperature sensor fluidised bed T2 25 Temperature sensor heater T1
11 Handle for adjusting the heater 26 Air supply
12 Air filter 27 Reactor base with sintered plates
13 Heater 28 Distribution chamber
14 Temperature fluidised bed T2 29 Glass cylinder
15 Temperature heater T1
Fig. 3.1 Layout WL 225
3 Unit Description 7
3.2 Process Schematic
The function of the system is explained using the

process schematic.
12
13
27
28
·
T1 Heater temperature T1 F1 Air flow rate V
T2 Fluidised bed temperature T2 V1 Air regulation valve
T3 Air inlet temperature T3 V2 Pressure reducing valve
P1 Fluidised bed pressure P1 V3 Safety valve
P2 Distribution chamber pressure P2 E1 Heater power P
P3 Air inlet pressure P3
Fig. 3.2 Process schematic WL 225
The fluidised bed is generated in a glass cylinder.

For this purpose, compressed air is blown through
the granules of solid material from below. To dis-
tribute the air evenly, the base of the glass cylin-
der consists of a porous sintered plate.
The necessary air pressure underneath the sin-
tered plate in the distribution chamber is meas-
ured using the manometer P2.
NOTICE
A safety valve V3 limits the pressure in the distri-

bution chamber to 0,5bar.
The air leaves the cylinder at the top via a dry

paper air filter. In this way any particles drawn off
from the mass are securely retained and no mate-
rial is lost.
The air flow is adjusted using the fine regulation
valve V1. One device is provided for the measure-
ment of the flow rate. The flow rates are measured
using a flowmeter F1.
Using the pressure reducing valve V2, the feed
pressure can be kept constant independent of the
pressure of the compressed air supply. The pres-
sure set can be measured using the manometer
P3.
To measure the change in pressure across the
height of the mass, a height adjustable measuring
probe with an electronic pressure sensor P1 is
provided.
For experiments on heat transfer in the fluidised
bed, the glass cylinder contains a horizontal cylin-
der (heater) that can be heated electrically. To be
able to investigate the influence of the depth of the

immersion in the fluidised bed, the cylinder can be
adjusted in height. The heater power can be
adjusted using a phase control. An electronic
Wattmeter E1 indicates the power.
The surface temperature T1 of the cylinder
(heater) is measured using a thermocouple T1
and displayed digitally.
NOTICE
Overheating possible to the unit.

• Do not remove or adjust the safety devices
(safety valve / overheating protection).
An immersion sensor T2 indicates the tempera-

ture of the fluidised bed. The temperature of the
compressed air entering the glass cylinder is also
displayed digitally (T3).
3.3 Data Acquisition
3.3.1 Installation of the Software
The following is needed for the installation:

• A fully operational PC with USB port (for mini-
mum requirements see Chapter 6.1, Page 42).
• G.U.N.T. CD-ROM.
All components necessary to install and run the
software are contained on the CD-ROM deliv-
ered by G.U.N.T.
Installation Routine
NOTICE
The trainer must not be connected to the PC's
USB port during the installation of the software.
Only after the software has been installed can the
trainer be connected.
• Boot the PC.

• Load the G.U.N.T. CD-ROM.
• Launch the “Start.bat” installation software.
• Follow the installation procedure onscreen.
• After starting, the installation runs automatically.
During the course of the installation, various
software components are loaded onto the PC:
– Software for PC-data acquisition
– LabVIEW-Runtime and driver routines
– G.U.N.T. libraries
• Reboot the PC after installation is finished.
3.3.2 Operating the Program
• Select and start the program by choosing:

Start / All Programs / G.U.N.T. / WL 225
• The language selected can subsequently be
changed at any time on the “Language” menu.
• Various pull-down menus are provided for
additional functions.
• For detailed instructions on use of the program

refer to its Help function. This Help function is
accessed by clicking the button „?”.
Saved measurement data can be imported into a

spreadsheet application (such as Microsoft
Excel®) where it can be edited.
3.4 First Commissioning

NOTICE
Danger of damage to the unit.
• Before connecting to the electrical supply:
Make sure that the power supply in the labora-
tory corresponds to the specifications on the
unit's rating plate.
1. Connect the unit to the mains.

2. Close the regulation valve V1.
3. If necessary, close the shut-off valve of the
compressed air supply.
4. Connect the supply of the compressed air.
3.5 Commissioning
V1
P3
22
V2
Fig. 3.3 Commissioning WL 225
1. Switch on the unit using the main switch

(22).
2. Check all electrical displays are functioning.
3. Open the shut-off valve of the compressed
air supply.
4. Adjust the inlet pressure P3 to 1 bar using
the pressure regulator V2.
3.5.1 Dismantling and Filling the Glass Cylinder
Prior to experiment, the glass cylinder must be

filled with the required mass. To practice operat-
ing the unit, it is recommended to use initially one
of the two sample materials supplied with the unit
(see Chapter 6.1, Page 42).
1. Pull up the heater and pressure sensor
(step 1).
2. Remove the air hose on the underside of the
1 2 distribution chamber (step 1).

3. Undo the 3 bolts in the top cover. Hold the
glass cylinder firmly during this process.
(step 2).
NOTICE
Take care not to damage the heater, the pressure
sensor and the temperature sensor (step 3).
4. Once the bolts have been completely

undone, the glass cylinder and air filter can
be removed downwards.
3 4
5. The air filter can now be removed from the
glass cylinder (step 4).
Fig. 3.4 Dismantling glass cylinder
NOTICE
We recommend a bed height between 70mm and
100mm.
6. Fill the glass cylinder with the required bulk

solid.
7. Replace the air filter on the glass cylinder.
During this process ensure that the air filter
sits centrally in the rebate in the lid.
NOTICE
The fluidised bed is very sensitive to tilting of the
glass cylinder. A tilt will result in the formation of
air bubbles only on one side.
8. Fit the glass cylinder and air filter to the top

from below and fix in place using the 3 bolts.
During this process, ensure that the bolts
are tightened evenly and that the glass
cylinder is exactly vertical.
9. Reconnect the air hose to the distribution
chamber.
3.5.2 Cleaning the Air Filter
NOTICE
Dust is produced.
• If necessary, blow out the air filter outdoors.
If the air filter becomes blocked with particles

drawn off in the air flow, it must be cleaned as
Material removed described below:
from the air filter for

reuse 1. Dismantle the glass cylinder and air filter
(see Fig. 3.4, Page 14).
2. Tap out the air filter on a firm surface.
Material removed from the air filter can be
added back to the bulk solid.
3. Blow out the air filter using compressed air
from the outside.
Fig. 3.5 Cleaning the air filter
3.5.3 Emptying and Cleaning the Glass Cylinder
NOTICE
Do not wash out the glass cylinder with water.
This will result in the small particles being washed
into the pores in the sintered plate and clogging
them.
NOTICE
Dust is produced.
• If necessary, blow out the air filter outdoors.
1. Dismantle the glass cylinder and air filter

(see Fig. 3.4, Page 14).
2. Pour the material out of the glass cylinder.
a To remove material stuck to the glass, tap
the cylinder and turn it at the same time.
3. Using compressed air from the connection
to the distribution chamber, blow out the
pores on the sintered plate. (a).
4. Material stuck to the plate can be removed
using compressed air from inside (b).
b
Fig. 3.6 Cleaning the glass cylinder
3.5.4 Cleaning the Sintered Plates
If the sintered plate is clogged, the plate can be

cleaned as described below.
1. Unbolt the distribution chamber.
2. Remove the sintered plates, during this pro-
cess take note of the position of the sealing
ring.
3. Blow out the sintered plate with high pres-
sure compressed air.
4. Refit the sintered plates.

– replace the sealing ring.
– refit the distribution chamber.
4 Basic Principles
The basic principles set out in the following make

no claim to completeness. For further theoretical
explanations, refer to the specialist literature.
4.1 Fluidised Beds
Fluidised bed means a fine-grained packed bed

(fixed bed) which is loosened due to a fluid flowing
through it such that the solid particles can move

freely within certain limits (fluidised bed). The
solid bed gains similar properties to a liquid.
Heat transfer coefficientt 
The pressure loss  p of the fluid flowing through

Packed bed Fluidised bed
(fixed bed) the bed can be used to characterise a fluidised
bed.
In the case of flow through the packed bed, at first
the pressure below the packed bed rises with
increasing flow velocity w until the compression
w
forces are equal to the weight of the packed bed,
Pressure loss p
and this enters a state of suspension.

If the flow rate increases further, the bed starts to
move and achieves a fluid state. Now the pres-
sure loss remains almost constant even if the flow
wfl w rate increases further.
Above a certain flow rate the upper particles no
wfl = fluidisation velocity
longer fall back into the fluidised bed; they are
w = flow velocity
carried along with the fluid flow and discharged.
Fig. 4.1 Fluidised bed
4 Basic Principles 19
The characteristics of the transfer of heat from a

heated body to the surroundings also change on
the formation of a fluidised bed. In the packed
bed, the transfer of heat is determined to a large
extent by the very low conductivity of the particles.
Due to the point contact between the particles and
the fluid filled intervening space, this heat transfer
is lower than for solid material. Part of the heat is
also drawn off by the fluid flow. As a result, the
transfer of heat increases slowly with the fluid
flow. However, as soon as the particles are in
motion, the transfer of heat is defined by the mov-

ing particles. Due to the higher specific heat
capacity of the particle material, the transport of
heat also increases significantly, and with it the
coefficient of heat transfer.
As a result, it is possible to achieve a extremely
even temperature distribution in the fluidised bed,
as in a mixed fluid. Contrary to fluids, it is possible
to realise very large temperature ranges in such
heat baths due to the temperature resistance of
the particle materials. This is an advantage over
heat baths that use, e.g. molten metals. In these
baths the lower operating temperature is limited
by the melting point, the upper by the boiling point.
Fluidised beds are widely used in process engi-
neering. They are used to thoroughly mix gase-
ous and solid or liquid reactants and to bring them
into close contact with one another. This is partic-
ularly true of fluidised bed firing systems, which
can be used to burn problematic substances in a
manner low in pollutants.
4.2 Pressure Loss in Fluidised Beds
The equilibrium of resistance, weight and lift

results in the following for the pressure loss  p
when flowing through the fluidised particle mass:

 p = g   1 – ------f   H   pl (4.1)
p
g = Gravitational acceleration
 f = Density of the fluid
 p = Density of the particles
h = Bed height
 pl = Density of the packed bed
4.3 Pressure Curve in the Fluidised Bed
The equilibrium of resistance, weight and lift does

not just apply at the bottom, but also at any height
within the packed bed.
As demonstrated in the previous section, the
pressure loss is linearly dependent on the bed
height h of the packed bed. From the bottom to
the surface, this gives a linear pressure curve
dropping to zero. Where y is the immersion depth
in the packed bed, it follows:
p
p  y  = -------  y (4.2)
h
4.4 Fluidisation Velocity in the Fluidised Bed
Fluidisation velocity means the fluid velocity at

which the packed bed transitions into a fluidised
bed. The velocity wfl of the fluid in the space
between the particles can be calculated from the
Reynolds number Refl, the particle diameter dp
and the kinetic viscosity  f of the fluid.
Re fl
w fl = ----------   f (4.3)
dp
Since the calculation of the fluid velocity applied

for spherical particles, the velocity for particles
with an irregular shape must be corrected by
means of a form factor  .
w = w fl   (4.4)
The void fraction indicates how large the cavity

portion within the packed bed is. It is calculated
from the density  p of the particles and the aver-
age density  pl of the packed bed.
 pl
 = 1 – ------
- (4.5)
p
The equilibrium of pressure loss and particle

resistance gives a connection between the
dimensionless figures Re (Reynolds number) and
Ar (Archimedes number).
 –4  - 
3
Re fl = 42,86   1 –     1 + 3,11  10  Ar  ------------------ – 1 (4.6)
 1 – 
2

The Archimedes number Ar is calculated from

density, particle diameter and viscosity of the
fluid.
3
g  d p p – f
Ar = ----------------  ----------------

2 f
 p = Density of the particles

 f = Density of the fluid
dp = Particle diameter
 = Kinematic viscosity
4.5 Heat Transfer in the Fluidised Bed
The coefficients of heat transfer can be calcu-

lated using the following relationship:
2
 = ---------------       c  f (4.7)
d
  ------p-
wb
Here      c  f are the conductivity, density and

specific heat capacity of the fluid. wb is the mean
speed of the air in the fluidised bed.
For closer observations of the heat transfer we refer

 to the specialist literature.
5 Experiments
The selection of experiments makes no claims of

completeness but is intended to be used as a
stimulus for your own experiments.
The results shown are intended as a guide only.
Depending on the construction of the individual
components, experimental skills and environmen-
tal conditions, deviations may occur in the experi-
ments. Nevertheless, the laws can be clearly
demonstrated.
NOTICE
To make the fluidised bed easier to see, the back-
ground lighting can be switched on (see Fig. 3.1,
Page 7, Pos. 20).
5.1 Experiment 1: Measuring the Pressure Loss
5.1.1 Experiment Aim
Determination of the pressure loss depending on

the flow rate at increasing flow rate and decreas-
ing flow rate.
5.1.2 Preparing the Experiment
For this experiment use a bulk solid of type

ZWSK100.
1. Fill the glass cylinder up to a bed height of
h = 85mm.
2. Slide the pressure sensor all the way down
to measure the pressure just above the
base.
The heater remains switched off.
5 Experiments 24
5.1.3 Performing the Experiment

·
3. Adjust the flow rate V to minimum (approx.
8L/min) using the regulation valve V1.
·
4. Read off the flow rate V and the pressure P1
and note these measured values.
5. Increase the flow rate in small steps.
– Observe the packed bed.
·
6. Make a note of the flow rate V and the pres-
sure P1 at any increase.
7. As soon as the first particle movements are

observed, the fluidisation velocity has been
reached.
·
– Note the related flow rate V .
8. Increase the flow rate in small steps and
·
note the flow rate V and the pressure P1
until a flow rate of 70L/min is reached.
9. Decrease the flow rate in the same steps
until the initial value of 8L/min is reached.
·
Again note the flow rate V and the pressure
P1 .
5 Experiments 25
5.1.4 Measured Values
Flow rate V·
8 10 15* 20 25 30 40 50 60 70
in L/min
Flow velocity
0,014 0,017 0,026 0,035 0,044 0,053 0,070 0,088 0,105 0,122
w in m/s
Pressure loss
p in mbar 6,0 9,9 17,2 16,2 16,5 16,7 16,5 16,5 16,4 16,3
increasing
Pressure loss
p in mbar 4,5 8,2 13,7 16,4 16,5 16,7 16,6 16,5 16,4 16,3
decreasing
Tab. 5.1 Exemplary measured values

* first movement
In the second line, the mean velocity associated

with the flow rate is given. This is calculated from
the cross-sectional area of the glass cylinder,
Acyl = 95cm2, and the flow rate in L/min as:
·
V -
w = ----------------- in m/s
6  A cyl
5 Experiments 26
5.1.5 Evaluating the Experiment
20
16
Pressure loss  p in mbar
12
4
wfl
0
0 0,02 0,04 0,06 0,08 0,10 0,12
Fluid velocity w in m/s
Fig. 5.1 Pressure loss against flow rate
It is characteristic that with increasing flow rate, a

pressure overshoot occurs initially. This marks
the fluidisation velocity wfl. This effect cannot be
seen with decreasing flow rate.
5 Experiments 27
5.2 Experiment 2: Measuring the Pressure Distribution in the Fluidised Bed
Determination of the pressure distribution in the

fluidised bed. Comparison of the measured maxi-
mum pressure loss with the theoretical value.
In this experiment, a bulk solid of type ZWSK100

is used.
h = 85mm.
2. Slide the pressure sensor all the way down,
base.
3. The exact position of the pressure sensor
can be measured using the steel ruler to
measure the distance between the handle
and the gland in the lid.

·
4. Adjust the flow rate V to approx. 40L/min
using the regulation valve V1.
5. Read off the pressure P1 and note this
value.
6. Raise the pressure sensor by 10mm and
note the pressure P1.
Repeat the last step until the pressure sensor has
reached the surface.
5 Experiments 28
Bed height h
above the base 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 85
in mm
Pressure loss
16,3 15,0 13,0 11,2 9,3 7,3 5,0 2,7 1,0 0
p in mbar
Tab. 5.2 Exemplary measured values, flow rate 40L/min

20
16
Pressure loss  p in mbar
12
0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
Bed height h above the base in mm

Fig. 5.2 Pressure distribution in the fluidised bed
5 Experiments 29
The maximum pressure loss measured of

p = 16,3mbar will now be compared with the
theoretical value.
The following applies for ZWSK100:
Bulk density  pl = 1700 kg/m3,
Particle density  p = 4000 kg/m3,
Fluid density  f = 1,25 kg/m3.
The bed height h is 0,085m.

 p = g   1 – ------f   h   pl
p
 kg 
 1,25 ------3- 
 p = 9,81 ----2-   1 – --------------------
m -   0,085m  1700 ------
m kg
-
kg  3
s  4000 ------3-  m
 m 
kg  m = 1417 ------- = 1417Pa ≙ 14,2mbar

N
 p = 1417 ----------------- 2
2 2
s m m
This value matches the measurement quite well.
5 Experiments 30
5.3 Experiment 3: Determining the Fluidisation Velocity
The loosening velocity at different bulk solids

(particle sizes) is to be determined and compared
with the theoretical values.
Two different bulk solids are used in this experi-

ment:
type ZWSK100 and
type ZWSK54
h = 85mm.
2. Slide the pressure sensor all the way down
base.
– The exact position of the pressure sensor
can be measured using the steel ruler to
measure the distance between the han-
dle and the gland in the lid.

·
3. Carefully increase flow rate V using the reg-
ulation valve V1.
4. Observe the bulk solid.
As soon as the first particles on the surface
start to move, monitor the pressure P1. If this
falls slightly or remains constant, the loosen-
ing velocity has been reached.
5 Experiments 31
5. Note the flow rate.

Repeat step 1 to 5 with the other bulk solid.
The following values were measured:

ZWSK100 : dp = 0,100mm, w = 0,0263m/s
ZWSK54 : dp = 0,250mm, w = 0,149m/s
The measured values are now to be compared

with theory. First the Archimedes number is calcu-
lated. The kinematic viscosity of air is:
2
–6 m-
 = 16  10 ------ (5.1)
s
For particle diameter dp = 0,100mm:

m 3 kg kg
9,81 ----2-   0,0001m  4000 ------3- – 1,25 ------3-
s m m-
-  ----------------------------------------------
Ar = -----------------------------------------------------
2
 16  10 – 6 m kg
----- 1,25 ------3-
 s m
Ar = 123
 = 1 – 1700
-------------
4000
 = 0,575
 –4 0,575
3 
Re fl = 42,86   1 – 0,575    1 + 3,11  10  123  -------------------------------2 – 1
  1 – 0,575  
5 Experiments 32
Refl = 0,363
2
0,363 –6 m
w fl = -----------------------  16  10 -------
0,0001m s
wfl = 0,058m/s
The fluid velocity related to the spherical shape of

the bulk solid is corrected by the empirically deter-

mined form factor  = 0,55 für Al2O3 (aluminium
oxide).
w = 0,058  0,55
w = 0,0319m/s.
This value matches well with the measured value
of w = 0,0263m/s.
For particle diameter dp = 0,250mm the same

calculation yields:
Ar = 1915
 = 0,55
Refl = 4,250
wfl = 0,272m/s
These give a flow velocity w = 0,150m/s.

This value matches very closely with the meas-
ured value w = 0,149m/s.
5 Experiments 33
5.4 Experiment 4: Measuring the Heat Transfer
Determination of the heat transfer in the fluidised

bed at a depth of 30mm, depending on the flow
velocity.
In this experiment, a bulk solid of type ZWSK100

is used.
h = 85mm.
2. Adjust the height of the heater such that it is
approx. 30mm deep in the bulk solid.
3. Adjust the heater power to 30 W.
NOTICE
The temperatures vary significantly over time due
to the formation of air bubbles in the fluidised bed.
• Attempt to read a mean value.
• During the experiment, check the heater power
and adjusted it if necessary.
·
4. Adjust the flow rate V to 10L/min using the
regulation valve V1.
5. Wait about 5 min until the heater has stabi-
lised thermally.
5 Experiments 34
6. Read and note the values of heater temper-

ature T1 and fluidised bed temperature T2.
Increase the flow rate in small steps and repeat
the steps 5 to 6.
·
Flow rate V
10 15 20 30 40 50 60
in L/min
Temperature
125 128 88 62 59 63 61
heater T1 in °C
Temperature
fluidised bed 33 37 45 38 37 37 37
T2 in °C

Heater power P = 30W
Heater immersion depth 30mm
The coefficient of heat transfer can be determined

from the heater power, the heater surface area
and the temperature difference between heater
surface and fluidised bed.
P
 = -----------------------------
- (5.2)
T  A heater
with
T = T1-T2
The heater surface area is calculated from the

area of the cylindrical sleeve and the open face.
2
A heater = d    L + d 
------------- (5.3)
4
5 Experiments 35
Using a diameter of d = 1cm and a length of

L = 4cm, the surface area is
2
A heater = dL+d 
------------- (5.4)
4
2 –3 2
A heater = 13,35cm = 1,335  10 m
Here the dissipation of heater into the handle is

ignored.
Flow rate
· 10 15 20 30 40 50 60
V in L/min
Flow velocity
0,017 0,026 0,035 0,052 0,070 0,088 0,105
w in m/s
Temperature
125 128 88 62 59 63 61
heater T1 in °C
Temperature
fluidised bed 33 37 45 38 37 37 37
T2 in °C
Temperature dif-
92 91 43 24 22 26 24
ference T in K
Coefficient of
heat transfer 244 247 522 936 1021 864 936
 in W/  m  K 
2
Tab. 5.4 Exemplary measured values and calculated values

Heater immersion depth 30mm
5 Experiments 36
1200
1000
Coefficient of heat transfer  in W/  m  K 
2
800
600
400
200
0
0 0,02 0,04 0,06 0,08 0,10
Flow velocity w in m/s
Fig. 5.3 Heat transfer in fluid bed
The curve of the coefficient of heat transfer  cor-

responds quite well to the theoretical predictions.
Below the fluidisation velocity wfl the coefficient is
very low as expected. As soon as the fluidisation
velocity wfl is exceeded, the coefficient of heat
transfer increases rapidly and reaches a maxi-
mum at w = 2...3  w fl . With further increasing
the coefficient of heat transfer  drops again.
5 Experiments 37
5.5 Experiment 5: Heat Transfer in the Fluidised Bed
Determination of heat transfer in the fluidised bed

depending on the height at a constant flow veloc-
ity.
In this experiment, a bulk solid of type ZWSK54 is

used.
h = 70mm.
2. Adjust the height of the heater such that it is
above the surface of the bulk solid.
This is the height y = 0.
3. Adjust the heater power to 30W.
NOTICE
The temperatures vary significantly over time due
to the formation of air bubbles in the fluidised bed.
• Attempt to read a mean value.
• During the experiment, check the heater power
and adjusted it if necessary.
·
4. Adjust the flow rate V to 100L/min using the
regulation valve V1.
5. Wait about 5 min until the heater has stabi-
lised thermally.
5 Experiments 38
6. Read and note the values of heater temper-

ature T1 and fluidised bed temperature T2.
Immerse the heater deeper in small steps
(5...10mm) and repeat the steps 5 to 6.
Immersion depth
0 5 10 20 30 40 50 60 70
y in mm
Temperature
208 103 103 103 109 119 119 119 119
heater T1 in °C
Temperature
fluidised bed 28 32 34 35 36 38 39 38 37
T2 in °C

·
Flow rate V = 100L/min

The coefficient of heat transfer can be determined
from the heater power, the heater surface area
and the temperature difference between heater
surface and fluidised bed.
P
 = -----------------------------
- (5.5)
T  A heater
with
T = T1-T2
The heater surface area is calculated from the

area of the cylindrical sleeve and the open face.
2
------------- (5.6)
4
5 Experiments 39
Using a diameter of d = 1cm and a length of

L = 4cm, the surface area is
2
------------- (5.7)
4
2 –3 2
A heater = 13,35cm = 1,335  10 m
Here the dissipation of heater into the handle is

ignored.
Immersion depth
0 5 10 20 30 40 50 60 70
y in mm
Temperature
208 103 103 103 109 119 119 119 119
heater T1 in °C
Temperature
fluidised bed 28 32 34 35 36 38 39 38 37
T2 in °C
Temperature dif-
180 71 69 68 73 81 80 81 82
ference T in °C
Coefficient of
heat transfer 125 316 325 330 308 277 281 277 274
 in W/  m  K 
2
Tab. 5.6 Exemplary measured values and calculated values

·
Flow rate V = 100L/min
5 Experiments 40
500
400
Coefficient of heat transfer  in W/( m  K )
2
300
200
Heater not fully immersed
100
Immersed at all
Heater not
0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
Immersion depth y in mm
Fig. 5.4 Heat transfer in the fluidised bed
Outside of the fluid bed (y = 0) the coefficient of

heat transfer is very low. It increases until the
heater is fully immersed and then drops slightly
with increasing depth.
5 Experiments 41
6 Appendix
6.1 Technical Data
Dimensions
Length x width x height 900 mm x 460 mm x 830 mm
Weight approx. 75 kg
Power supply
Voltage 230 V
Frequence 50 Hz
Phases 1
Nominal consumption (power) 0,35 kW
Optional alternatives, see rating plate
Compressed air supply

Flow rate approx. 7500 L/h
Pressure, minimum 2 bar
Pressure, maximum 6 bar
Glass reactor
Capacity approx. 2150 mL
Filling volume approx. 1000 mL
Operating pressure 500 mbar
Measuring ranges
Flow rate 10...124 NL/min
Temperature 1 x 0...100 °C
2 x 0...400 °C
Pressure 1 x 0...25 mbar
2 x 0...1600 mbar
6 Appendix 42
Supplied material for bulk solids:

Granulated aluminium oxide Al2O3 (corundum) of two different particle sizes
and bulk densities:
ZWSK54: dp = 0,250...0,300mm,  pl = 1790kg/m3
ZWSK100: dp = 0,106...0,125mm,  pl = 1700kg/m3
The particle density for both is:
 p = 4000kg/m3.
Data acquisition
Software environment:
LabVIEW Runtime
System requirements:
PC with processor Pentium IV, 1GHz
Minimum 1024MB RAM
Minimum 1GB available memory on hard disk
1 CD-ROM drive
1 USB port
Graphics card resolution min. 1024 x 768 pixels, True Color
Windows 7 / Windows 8 / Windows 10
6 Appendix 43
6.2 List of Formula Symbols and Units Used
Symbol Mathematical/physical quantity Unit
A Cross-section cm2
Ar Archimedes number –
d Diameter mm, m
g Acceleration due to gravity g = 9,81 m/s2
h Bed height mm
p Pressure bar, mbar, Pa

Re Reynolds number –
·
V Flow rate L/min
w Flow velocity m/s
y Immersion depth mm

2
Coefficient of heat transfer W/ m  K
p Pressure loss bar, Pa
 Voids fraction –
 Density kg/m3
 Form factor –
Suffix Explanation
b Bubble
cyl Cylinder
f Fluid
fl Fluidisation
p Particle
pl Particle layer
6 Appendix 44
6.3 Tables and Diagrams
Unit mm3 cm3 L m3
1mm3 1 0,001 0,000001 0,000000001
1cm3 1.000 1 0,001 0,000001
1L 1.000.000 1.000 1 0,001
1m3 1.000.000.000 1.000.000 1.000 1
Tab. 6.1 Conversion table for volume units

Unit L/s L/min L/h m3/min m3/h
1l/s 1 60 3600 0,06 3,6
1l/min 0,01667 1 60 0,001 0,06
1l/h 0,000278 0,01667 1 0,00001667 0,001
1m3/min 16,667 1000 60000 1 60
1m3/h 0,278 16,667 1000 0,01667 1
Tab. 6.2 Conversion table for flow rate units
Unit bar mbar Pa hPa kPa mm

water col-
umn*
1bar 1 1.000 100.000 1.000 100 10.000
1mbar 0,001 1 100 1 0,1 10
1Pa 0,00001 0,01 1 0,01 0,001 0,1
1hPa 0,001 1 100 1 0,1 10
1kPa 0,01 10 1.000 10 1 100
1 mm 0,0001 0,1 10 0,1 0,01 1

water col-
umn*
Tab. 6.3 Conversion table for pressure units

* Rounded values
6 Appendix 45

Heat Transfer in Fluidized Bed

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Heat Transfer in Fluidized Bed

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Experiment Instructions

WL 225 Heat Transfer in

Last modification by: Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Peter Mittasch

This manual must be kept by the unit.

Before operating the unit:

Version 0.3 Subject to technical alterations

5.2.1 Experiment Aim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

In fluidised beds, granules of a solid material are

– Tempering baths with even temperature distri-

Fig. 1.1 Fluidisation of solid material

– heat transfer in the fluidised bed

The unit is designed as a table unit. All controls

2.1 Intended Use

The unit is to be used only for teaching purposes.

2.2 Structure of the Safety Instructions

The signal words DANGER, WARNING or

An additional symbol indicates the nature of the

Signal word Explanation

Indicates a situation which, if not avoided, will result in

Indicates a situation which, if not avoided, may result in

Indicates a situation which, if not avoided, may result in

Indicates a situation which may result in damage to

Wear hand protection

2.3 Safety Instructions

2.4 Ambient Conditions for Operating and Storage Location

• Free of dirt and moisture.

1 Compressed air connection 16 Temperature air inlet T3

Fig. 3.1 Layout WL 225

3.2 Process Schematic

The function of the system is explained using the

Fig. 3.2 Process schematic WL 225

The fluidised bed is generated in a glass cylinder.

A safety valve V3 limits the pressure in the distri-

The air leaves the cylinder at the top via a dry

able to investigate the influence of the depth of the

Overheating possible to the unit.

An immersion sensor T2 indicates the tempera-

3.3 Data Acquisition

3.3.1 Installation of the Software

The following is needed for the installation:

• Boot the PC.

3.3.2 Operating the Program

• Select and start the program by choosing:

• For detailed instructions on use of the program

Saved measurement data can be imported into a

3.4 First Commissioning

1. Connect the unit to the mains.

Fig. 3.3 Commissioning WL 225

1. Switch on the unit using the main switch

3.5.1 Dismantling and Filling the Glass Cylinder

Prior to experiment, the glass cylinder must be

1 2 distribution chamber (step 1).

4. Once the bolts have been completely

Fig. 3.4 Dismantling glass cylinder

6. Fill the glass cylinder with the required bulk

8. Fit the glass cylinder and air filter to the top

3.5.2 Cleaning the Air Filter

If the air filter becomes blocked with particles

from the air filter for

Fig. 3.5 Cleaning the air filter

3.5.3 Emptying and Cleaning the Glass Cylinder

• If necessary, blow out the air filter outdoors.

1. Dismantle the glass cylinder and air filter