Spouting Phenomenon of Fluidized Fine Cohesive Powder

Abstract

In this study, the spouting phenomenon of fluidized cohesive powder bed of soft wheat flour of 46μm is experimentally examined. Three ways of air supply: (1) only at the top, (2) only at the bottom and (3) at the top and bottom of the bed are tested. From the results, it is found that the smooth discharge of fine powder from an orifice and the steady flow are attained when the same flow rate of air is simulta-neously introduced at the top and bottom of the bed. Also, it is indicated that the smooth discharge of powder depends on the flow pattern, the void fraction and the interstitial air pressure in the vessel.