Overview
The Fixed and Fluidized Bed Apparatus allows systematic study of pressure drop across a packed bed of particles as a function of superficial gas or liquid velocity, and identification of the minimum fluidisation velocity (Umf) at which the bed transitions from fixed to fluidised state. The pressure drop and bed expansion are measured continuously as flow rate is increased and then decreased. Students verify the Ergun equation for fixed bed pressure drop, determine Umf experimentally and compare with Wen and Yu or other correlations, and study bed expansion and mixing in the fluidised state. The apparatus is fundamental to understanding fluidised bed reactors, dryers, combustors, and gasifiers.
Specifications
| Column | borosilicate glass, transparent |
| Column diameter | 50 to 100 mm |
| Column height | 600 to 1000 mm |
| Particle material | glass beads, sand, alumina |
| Particle size | 0.5 to 5 mm |
| Fluid | air or water |
| Flow range | 0 to 100 LPM |
| Pressure measurement | manometer / differential pressure transducer |
| Power supply | 220V AC, 50 Hz |