Conference article

Mixing of two granular phases in a rotary kiln was investigated through CFD simulations using a two-dimensional transverse plane based on the Eulerian approach and the kinetic theory of granular flows. Simulations were performed transverse with the aim to investigate mixing of two particulate solids, CaCO3 and Al2O3, under the rolling mode. Simulation results indicated particle segregation rather than mixing during the plane rotation. Volume fractions and velocity contours of each phase were examined to understand the mixing and segregation. Particles with lower density and small particle diameter are collected in the middle section of the bed, while particles with a higher density and larger particle diameter get collected at the bottom of the rotating cylinder. Variations in densities and particle sizes of solid particles were identified as the main causes of the particle segregation. Further studies are required to examine the effect of degree of filling on mixing performance and how the use of lifters may improve the mixing efficiency.

rotary kiln, granular flow, rolling mode, active layer, passive layer