Applicability and Validity of CFD-based Compartment Models for One to Multiple Operating Points

Abstract

CFD-based compartment (CPT) models offer a promising modeling method and trade-off between computational effort and required accuracy. The models combine the relevant fluid dynamics from the computational expensive CFD and the incorporation of complex reaction mechanisms usually used in basic reactor models. However, one criticism is their reliance on specific operating points, rendering them invalid when boundary conditions change. This study explores using a CFD-based CPT model for static mixing elements across multiple operating points by making use of the creeping flow. The mean age theory facilitates a comprehensive comparison between CFD and CPT models. Results indicate that within this flow region, the CPT model can be extrapolated to other operating points via linear scaling.