Powder Fluidization

Why Powder Fluidization Testing?

Fluidization can be a highly effective method for handling a fine bulk material in an
aerated or liquid-like condition. Air or another gas can be used for powder
fluidization either in a fully fluidized state or only in a localized manner with small
amounts of gas flow.
Fluidization is commonly used with pulverized fuel handling, drying operations,
reaction processes, and fine powder hopper discharge systems.
The advantages for handling powders and bulk solids via fluidization instead of
traditional deaerated gravity flow include:

Elimination or reduction of arching (bridging) or ratholing problems

Increased discharge rate from a silo or hopper
Blending of solids and reduction in mixture segregation
Increased gas-solids interaction for drying, agglomeration, or reactions
Typical bulk solids suitable for fluidization have a fine particle size, a low
permeability, a tight particle size distribution, and low cohesive
strength. The Geldart powder fluidization chart is a common reference used to
assess if a bulk solid is a good candidate for fluidization (Geldart zones A and
B). Many solids can be fluidized, though powders prone to segregate or cake are
often not good candidates.
Powder Fluidization Tests
To evaluate powder fluidization suitability, we can perform the following tests:

Minimum fluidization velocity: run with 8 in. (200 mm) dia. test column
Fluidization discharge assessment: run with 22 in. (560 mm) dia. column
Air-assisted discharge: localized powder aeration vs. full fluidization
These tests can be run with various gases (e.g., nitrogen, carbon dioxide) and over
a range of temperatures. During these tests, observations are made to note
settlement behavior, channeling of the solids, formation of a solid plug, and bed
expansion. View a video of powder fluidization tests performed in our laboratory.
Test Results
The fluidization test results are presented in a comprehensive report package
containing:

description of fluidization procedure, test apparatus, fluidization media

graph of powder bed pressure-drop as function of superficial gas velocity
observations of test phenomena such as plug rise, bed spouting, or cracking
video of fluidization behavior in test column
test conclusions and recommendation for fluidization velocity for powder
After completion of the tests, a Jenike & Johanson engineer will review the results
with you and answer your questions. We will also discuss how the test results may
be used for your fluidization application.
Need to send samples for testing? Click here for additional information.
What's Next
Contact us to review your fluidization testing needs with one of our
engineers. After your fluidization tests have been completed, we can show you
effective engineering approaches to handle bulk materials with proven fluidization
technologies to ensure uniform gas distribution, uninterrupted discharge, and
reliable processing.