Void Fraction of Multi-Component Randomly Packed Beds with Size Distributions [Translated]†

Abstract

Experimental measurements and computer simulation are reported on the void fraction of multi-component randomly packed beds with log-normal, log-uniform, Rosin-Rammler or Andreasen (Gaudin-Schuhmann) size distributions. Packing experiments were done by two methods, i.e. prodding and tapping. Glass beads (spherical particles) and crushed glass (irregularly shaped particles) were used for these experiments. The following results were obtained from the experiments and the simulations. A minimum void fraction of a packed bed with Andreasen distribution exists in the range of Fuller constant q = 0.5-0.8, and the void fractions of packed beds with the other three distributions decrease as the size distribution spreads. The experimental and the simulated results for void fraction were compared with values calculated by our model and agreement between them was fairly good. This model is useful for estimating the void fraction in a multi-component randomly packed bed of spherical and irregularly shaped particles with size distribution.† This report was originally printed in KAGAKU KOGAKU RONBUNSHU, 11(4), 438-443 (1985) in Japanese, before being translated into English by KONA Editorial Committee with the permission of the editorial committee of the Soc. Chemical Engineers, Japan.