Abstract

RIOS-MORALES, D.; CASTILLO-ARAIZA, CO.; RUIZ-MARTINEZ, R.S.  and  VIZCARRA-MENDOZA, M.G.. Statistical evaluation and modeling of the behavior of a fluidized bed granulator. Rev. Mex. Ing. Quím [online]. 2011, vol.10, n.2, pp.235-245. ISSN 1665-2738.

In the present work a completely randomized factorial experimental design was utilized to identify the effect on particle growth of some op erating variables of a fluidized-bed granulato r at pilot-plant scale. The variables considered were the binder addition time (20, 40 y 60 min), air temperature (60, 70, 80 and 90° C) and whether or not elutriated solids were recirculated back into the fluidization chamber. In the agglomeration process 0.121 mm mean diameter particles of organic nature were used, the bed was fluidized by air and distilled water was sprayed as the binding agent. Based on a qualitative analysis of the average particle size, an analysis of variance (ANOVA) with 5% significance level, and the use of a discretized population balance, it was found that the binder addition time was the main operating parameter acting on particle growth in an agglomeration process where nucleation and aggreg ation mechanisms play a dominant role.

Keywords : fluidized-bed granulator; analysis of variance (ANOVA); randomized factorial experimental design; discretized population balance (DPB).

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