A new pseudo-continuous model for the fluid flow in packed beds

Abstract

A new pseudo-continous model, describing the fluid flow through packed bed reactors, is developed by formulating the Navier-Stokes equations for a statistically described domain geometry. A coupling term, occurring in the momentum equation, representing the fluid-solid interaction and is modelled by comparison with the exact Navier-Stokes equations. Static and dynamic, inviscid and viscous contributions are separated, and stringent requirements for the dependence on the local voidage are found which are met by a simple model. Good agreement with correlations and experiments is found for the predictions of the pressure drop and the radial distribution of the axial velocity.