Numerical Investigations on a Small-Scale Air-Slide Conveyor

Abstract

This study reports upon numerical investigations on a small-scale air-slide conveyor (ASC) model that is based on a full-scale industrial ASC currently in operation. For validation of the ASC model and prediction of details of cement flow distribution on time-basis, both steady-state and transient simulations are performed. Simulation results demonstrate the development of cement flow phenomenon and predict critical flow features in the system, which will be useful for predicting corresponding behavior in the full-scale industrial ASC. Mass balance is achieved and potential optimization technique is supported by simulation data. Both steady-state converged solution and results on time-basis are discussed. This study demonstrates the validity of ASC model design and paves the way for using similar numerical tools for future particle-laden flow studies. Lastly, it also offers design and optimization insights into such industrial ASC systems.

Keywords

• Air-slide conveyor; Cement flow; Numerical simulation; Prototype.