MODELING OF LIQUID CIRCULATION VELOCITY IN CONCENTRIC-TUBE AIRLIFT REACTORS

A mathematical model for riser liquid superficial velocity in a concen tric-tube airlift reactor is proposed. The model is based on an energy balance incorporating acceleration coefficients to quantify deviation s from ideal flow. The acceleration coefficients at the draft-tube and downcomer entrance an determined experimentally. based on static pres sure profile measurements. The model could predict liquid velocities o ver a broad range, including an almost 50-fold variation of liquid cir culation velocity and a four-fold change in reactor height. The model predictions agreed with the measurements to within +/- 28%. (C) 1998 E lsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.