Fluid Dynamics of Pressurized, Entrained Coal Gasifiers
Pressurized, entrained gasification is a promising new technology for the clean and efficient combustion of coal. Its principle is to operate a coal gasifier at a high inlet gas velocity to increase the inflow of reactants, and at an elevated pressure to raise the overall efficiency of the process. Unfortunately, because of the extraordinary difficulties involved in performing measurements in hot, pressurized, high-velocity pilot plants, its fluid dynamics are largely unknown. Thus the designer cannot predict with certainty crucial phenomena like erosion, heat transfer and solid capture. In this context, we are conducting a study of the fluid dynamics of Pressurized Entrained Coal Gasifiers (PECGs). The idea is to simulate the flows in generic industrial PECGs using dimensional similitude. To this end, we employ a unique entrained gas-solid flow facility with the flexibility to recycle--rather than discard--gases other than air. By matching five dimensionless parameters, suspensions in mixtures of helium, carbon dioxide and sulfur hexafluoride simulate the effects of pressure and scale-upon the fluid dynamics of PECGs. Because it operates under cold, atmospheric conditions, the laboratory facility is ideal for detailed measurements.
- Research Organization:
- National Energy Technology Lab., Pittsburgh, PA and Morgantown, WV (US)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE Assistant Secretary for Fossil Energy, Washington, DC (US)
- DOE Contract Number:
- FG22-93PC93216
- OSTI ID:
- 16802
- Report Number(s):
- DOE/PC/93216-14; ON: DE98058875; TRN: US200504%%379
- Resource Relation:
- Other Information: Supercedes report DE98058875; PBD: 31 Mar 1997
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Fluid dynamics of pressurized, entrained coal gasifiers. Tenth quarterly technical progress report, April 1, 1996--June 30, 1996
Fluid Dynamics of Pressurized, Entrained Coal Gasifiers