Ergun Equation:
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The Ergun equation is used to calculate the friction factor for flow through packed beds when the Reynolds number (Repb) is between 1 and 2500. It combines both viscous and inertial flow contributions in porous media.
The calculator uses the Ergun equation:
Where:
Explanation: The first term (150/Repb) represents the viscous contribution to pressure drop, while the constant term (1.75) represents the inertial contribution.
Details: Accurate friction factor calculation is crucial for designing packed bed reactors, predicting pressure drops in filtration systems, and optimizing fluid flow through porous media in various industrial applications.
Tips: Enter the Reynolds number (Repb) value between 1 and 2500. The calculator is specifically designed for this range as the Ergun equation is most accurate within these limits.
Q1: What is the valid range for Reynolds number in this equation?
A: The Ergun equation is valid for Reynolds numbers between 1 and 2500 for packed bed flows.
Q2: What does the friction factor represent?
A: The friction factor represents the dimensionless pressure drop per unit length of packed bed, accounting for both viscous and inertial flow resistance.
Q3: When is the Ergun equation typically used?
A: The Ergun equation is commonly used in chemical engineering for designing packed bed reactors, absorption towers, and other processes involving flow through porous media.
Q4: Are there limitations to this equation?
A: The equation assumes uniform spherical particles and may not be accurate for non-spherical particles or extreme particle size distributions.
Q5: What are typical values for the friction factor?
A: Friction factor values typically range from about 1.8 to 151, decreasing as Reynolds number increases within the valid range.