Effect of mechanical vibrations on fluidizing velocities for sawdust fluidbed drying. Experimental results

The aim of this paper is to analyze the influence exerted by mechanical vib rations - placed to the drying chamber - on fluidization velocities require d for sawdust drying in vibrating fluidized bed. Tests were carried out on a lab-scale equipment. Through empirical data of fluidizing velocities and pressure drops, advantages of use of vibrations on hydrodynamics are quanti fied. This study provided an alternative to improve fluidization quality an d reduce the operation velocities and air rates, in relation to results obt ained in a sawdust unvibrated bed.