Abstract
In this study, velocimetry and statistical analyses were conducted on a swirling fluidized bed. A bed of spherical particles (4 mm) was fluidized by using an annular distributor covered with mesh. The angles of rectangular blades in the distributor were set at 30 degrees, 45 degrees, 60 degrees, 75 degrees and 90 degrees, and the cell size of the mesh cover was 2.5 x 2.5 mm(2). The weight was varied from 500 to 1250 g and the effect of each variable on bed velocity response was quantified through velocimetry and statistical analysis. The statistical analysis was conducted using NCSS statistical software. The blade angle, bed weight and superficial velocity for 4 mm particles were statistically optimized at 750 g, 58.26 degrees and 1.45 m/s, respectively. On the experimental side, these parameters have been optimized at 750 g, 60 degrees and 1.41 m/s, respectively. A small difference of 1.74 degrees was noticed in experimental and statistical predictions for the blade angle. The bed weights and superficial velocities were found to be same in both cases. The confidence interval (95%) for bed velocity was proposed in the range of 0.513 to 0.519 m/s. The experimentally optimized bed velocity remained within the proposed range. The well-agreeing results indicate good practical value of distributor design and high precision of the experimental measurements.