A quantitative design approach for multi-port distributors

A simple model has been developed to predict the extent of particle settling in a multi-port slurry feed distributor for given conditions. The model relates the degree of particle settling with particle size distribution, particle density, solids concentration, feed flowrate and geometric parameters of the distributor. The parameter, Variation Index, has been introduced to provide a quantitative measurement of the bias on particle size distribution of substreams. A linear relationship has been found between the model prediction of the degree of particle settling and the Variation Index of experimental curves on particle size distributions of substreams. This relationship not only verifies the model prediction, but also provides a good description of the dependence of the degree of bias on operating conditions and design parameters of the distributor. A design procedure based on the model and the linear relationship has been established to determine the geometric parameters of a multi-port distributor for unbiased slurry subdivision. A laboratory and two industrial distributors have been used for case studies to validate the new design approach. It has been found that predictions are in good correspondence with experimental results and plant sampling data. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights resented.