CFD as a design tool for fixed-bed reactors

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is a tool that is becoming more realisti c for use in the description of the detailed flow fields within fixed beds of low tube-to-particle diameter ratio (N). The motivation for the use of C FD is presented by reviewing the current state of fixed-bed reactor modelin g, with an emphasis on the treatment of the description of fluid flow withi n the bed. Challenges in the use of CFD for fixed beds of particles are tre ated here, selected results are presented for N = 2 and N = 4, and potentia l uses of the simulation information in design models for fixed-bed reactor s are discussed.