Drag Reducing Flow in Dilute Phase Pneumatic Conveying Systems - Is It Significant?

This paper considers the influence of the phenomenon known as drag reduction on gas-particle suspensions. Examples of reported drag reduction are explored and a test programme to evaluate the effect of drag reduction on the specifications of dust control systems is proposed. The object of this programme is to assess which parameters are dominant in obtaining drag reduction and to define an operating window for this effect. Current industrial practise is reviewed and recommendations are made with a view to developing a strategy to take account of the possible effect of drag reduction on dilute phase pneumatic conveying systems.