In the quest for more efficient thermal management solutions, researchers have turned their attention to the often-overlooked details of particle shape in moving bed heat exchangers (MBHEs). A recent study published in the *Advances in Chemical Engineering Journal* has shed light on how non-spherical particles could revolutionize the energy sector, particularly in high-temperature applications like concentrated solar power and waste heat recovery.
Dr. Aidana Boribayeva, a researcher from the Chemical and Materials Engineering Department at Nazarbayev University in Astana, Kazakhstan, led the investigation. The study focused on the flow behavior and heat transfer of non-spherical particles in a staggered tube MBHE, comparing them with the more commonly used spherical particles.
The research revealed that non-spherical particles, specifically cylindrical ones, form broader stagnation zones and narrower void zones around the heat exchange tubes. This results in enhanced particle-tube contact, which is crucial for efficient heat transfer. “Non-spherical particles create more asymmetric sidewall flow and larger contact areas, which significantly improves the heat transfer efficiency,” Dr. Boribayeva explained.
The study employed a combination of experimental techniques and numerical simulations using the Discrete Element Method (DEM). The DEM model was validated through particle tracking experiments, ensuring the accuracy of the simulations. The validated model was then used to analyze the flow, heat transfer, and packing structure under varying outlet velocities.
One of the key findings was that cylindrical particles heat the tube faster and stabilize the temperature earlier due to their larger contact areas. In contrast, spherical particles, which create narrower stagnation and wider void zones, heat slower with smaller contact areas. “Higher outlet velocities enhance cylindrical particle alignment, increasing the number of thermally favorable contact types, such as face–plane contacts with larger contact areas,” Dr. Boribayeva noted.
The implications of this research for the energy sector are substantial. By optimizing the shape of particles used in MBHEs, industries can achieve more effective thermal management solutions. This could lead to improved efficiency in concentrated solar power plants and waste heat recovery systems, ultimately reducing energy costs and environmental impact.
The study also provides a deeper understanding of the packing structure at the tube surface, offering insights into the types of contacts that are most beneficial for heat transfer. This knowledge could guide the design of future MBHEs, making them more efficient and cost-effective.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the findings from this research could pave the way for innovative thermal management solutions. By harnessing the unique properties of non-spherical particles, industries can achieve higher efficiency and sustainability in their operations. The study not only advances our understanding of granular flow behavior and heat transfer but also opens new avenues for research and development in the field of energy engineering.