Gas/slurry flow in coal liquefaction processes (fluid dynamics in 3-phase flow columns)

The need for additional data on behavior of three phase systems in large vessels was addressed. Parameters are investigated at conditions that relate directly to the projected demonstration plant operating conditions. Air/water/sand three phase flow system in both a 5 inch diameter and a 12 inch diameter column is used in this cold flow simulation program. The type of distributor used does not seem to affect the solids distribution profiles. The amount of solids retained in the column increases linearly with decreasing slurry velocity while changes in linear gas velocity does not affect the solids distribution profiles for the conditions studied. It is indicated that withdrawing solids from the bottom of the column results in a decreased amount of solids in the column and the solids concentration profile changes accordingly. It is shown that large particles were preferentially removed by virtue of their faster settling rate. The effects of settled particles and particle/particle interaction on solids accumulation were investigated. It it indicated that the presence of large particles does not influence the accumulation or distribution of fine particles. The column enclosure was completed and tested to identify the organic liquid/liquid which is to be used in the 12 inch diameter column.