Abstract
Numerical simulations for equipment design were carried out using the discrete element method (DEM). A new coater (Small-particle Coater) for use in coating of small particles has been developed. This coater has been improved in comparison with Wurster equipment by conically expanding the lower part of the draft tube of the Wurster and providing a side air jetting mechanism. Particle behavior in Small-particle Coater was numerically simulated and compared with that in the Wurster. The result showed that particle stagnant zones outside the draft tube in the coater decreased as compared with the Wurster. The Small-particle Coater was actually produced, for experimental coating of small particles and comparison of the coating by the Small-particle Coater with that the Wurster. The result confirmed that the Small-particle Coater designed on the basis of simulation results was useful for coating of small particles.
