Poly-disperse particle transport and deposition in idealized porous channels

A numerical model has been developed to study particulate fouling in 2D idealized metal foam heat exchangers based on sandstone and sawdust particles. The examination will serve as a stepping stone to better optimize heat exchanger designs. Micron sized poly - disperse sandstone and sawdust particles ha s been used in this investigation, with air as the continuous medium. The mechanism of deposition differs from particle type, sandstone particles showed a higher deposition propensity with a non - uniform layer of fouling whereas the lighter sawdust particles showed negligible deposition. The numerical results obtained through a coupled finite volume and discrete element method showed good agreement with the analytical pressure values obtained from the Darcy equation based on modified porosity of 80 – 100 %, whereas a modified Darcy equation yielded good agreement for porosity values less than 80%