Radial heat transfer in fixed-bed packing with small tube/particle diameter ratios

This paper presents an integrating approach to the description of radial heat transfer in catalyst packing with a flow without chemical reactions. The derived model combines the conventional αW model with the more recent λr(r) model. Particular attention is paid to small tube/particle diameter ratios. Experimental data including different tube diameters and particle shapes are used for adjustment. Spheres were used to represent a type of ordered single-size packing, and hollow cylinders to represent a type of chaotic random packing. A gradual quasi-steady experimental concept allows measurement of temperature gradients even at low flow velocities. Adjusted radial temperature profiles are compared with known approaches from literature, and correlation equations for heat transfer parameters are specified.