Sensitivity Analysis and Validation of a Two Fluid Method (TFM) Model for a Spouted Bed

A spouted bed has been simulated through a Computational Fluid Dynamic model using the Two Fluid Method and validated against experimental data. A sensitivity analysis has assessed the influence of the characteristic parameters on the solution. Among them, the accurate selection of the drag law seems to have the strongest influence on the results. In order to extend the capabilities of Ansys Fluent, Di Felice’s drag law was also considered through a User Defined Function. The assessment of the granular phase and its kinetic, collisional and frictional forces, is highly relevant to achieve a correct prediction of the particle velocity profile. The specularity coefficient appears to be more influencing than the restitution coefficient, but both parameters are useful to optimise the model. Overall, the prediction of the particle vertical velocity is accurate whereas the height of the fountain is slightly over-predicted.