Simulation of cluster formation in gas-solid flow induced by particle-particle collisions

Simulations of gas-solid flows in a horizontal channel are presented. The t ransient motion of the particle phase is computed using the Simultaneous Pa rticle Tracking technique. Particle-particle collisions are accounted for b y applying a Stochastic model. Particle to gas mass loading ratio is varied in the simulations from 0.01 upto 10. The influence of inter-particle coll isions on the particle concentration distribution is investigated. Collisio ns are found to have a significant effect on the concentration distribution at moderate to high loading ratios. For high loading ratios, collisions te nd to enhance the formation of particle clusters. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.