Multiphase CFD Simulation for Performance Estimation of Forced Feed Venturi Scrubber Using Euler-Lagrange Method

Abstract

The adverse and severe effects of particulates and toxic gasses on human health and environment demand an efficient scrubbing system which reduces the toxicity of the pollutants to a desirable value. Venturi scrubber is widely employed to abate the pollutant concentration because of their high removal efficiency. For an accurate and efficient design of venturi scrubber, the complex fluid dynamic behavior inside the venturi scrubber should be analyzed. The present Multiphase Euler-Lagrange CFD study deals with the developed three phase model to predict pressure drop and collection efficiency. The continuous phase is resolved in the Eulerian frame of reference by solving the Navier Stokes equation while dust and droplet are treated in Lagrangian framework through DPM model. The model takes into account the turbulence through the realizable k-𝝴 model, TAB model for droplet secondary breakup and drag coefficient is modeled through dynamic and spherical drag laws for dust and droplet. Effect of design parameters like throat gas velocity, droplet diameter and L/G ratio (L/G ratio) on venturi scrubber performance are investigated. Results of pressure drop predicted by this model agree well with experimental data and Open FOAM simulation. Collection efficiency predicted by this model using Calvert and Mohebbi equations concur well with experimental data. It is concluded that the efficiency calculation by Mohebbi equation presents less relative error as compared to Calvert equation with respect to experimental data.