Operator Training Course for Fluidized Processes - Chicago

The PSRI Operator Training Seminar is designed for engineers and operators involved with fluidized bed or circulating fluidized bed operations. The course offers a comprehensive understanding of fluidized processes through detailed presentations, hands-on laboratories, and practical troubleshooting techniques derived from over 45 years of industry practice. Here is a full write-up on the event:

Day 1: Introduction and Fundamentals

Introduction to PSRI and Technical Programs

• Overview of PSRI’s objectives and the scope of its technical programs.

Introduction and Overview

• Introduction to key terminology and particulate properties.
• Detailed exploration of fluidization regimes and transitions.

Laboratory 1: Particle Characterization

• Techniques for particle sampling and riffling.
• Analysis of particle size using Sympatec Halos 3.
• Measurement of loose bulk densities and angle of repose.
• Determination of loose and tapped bulk densities.
• Examination of particles through microscope images.
• Visualization of flow using colored beads in a semicircular fluidized bed.

Hydrodynamics of Fluidized Beds

• In-depth discussion on the behavior and properties of fluidized beds.

Gas Distributors (Grids)

• Study of various types of gas distributors and their roles in fluidized beds.

Laboratory 2: Fluidized Bed Operation in Clear Fluidized Beds

• Fluidization of Group A solids (e.g., FCC catalyst).
• Proper procedures for bed start-up and shutdown.

Day 2: Industrial Applications and Cyclone Design

Overview of Industrial Applications

• Discussion on the various industrial applications of fluidized bed technology.

Entrainment

• Examination of entrainment phenomena in fluidized beds.

Cyclone Design and Operation

• Fundamentals of cyclone design and operational techniques.
• Continued exploration of cyclone design principles.

Laboratory 3: Fluidized Bed Operation in Clear Fluidized Beds

• Fluidization of Group B solids.
• Proper procedures for bed start-up and shutdown.

Laboratory 4: General Tour of Fluidized Beds

• Tour of several fluidized beds of different scales.
• Discussion on bubbling and turbulent regimes in fluidized beds.

Day 3: Standpipes and Pneumatic Conveying

Standpipes

• Detailed examination of standpipe mechanisms and their importance in fluidized bed operations.

Laboratory 5: Test Unit Operations

• Viewing of the 6-inch diameter SP unit and 8-inch diameter circulating fluidized bed unit (riser).
• Analysis of aeration effects, including over and under aeration.
• Procedures for proper start-up and pressure build-up in test units.

Pneumatic Conveying and Risers

• Study of pneumatic conveying techniques and riser operations.

Additional Information

Course Objectives:

• Understand the operation of fluidized beds, risers, and cyclones.
• Learn steady-state and start-up operations for fluidized processes.
• Troubleshoot common issues in fluidized processes.

Course Material:

• Fluidization concepts, particle size distributions, gas sparger and grid designs.
• Cyclone design, fluidized bed and circulating fluidized bed design.
• Startups and shutdowns, entrainment predictions, sampling methods, managing particle attrition.

Course Methodology:

• Material based on 45 years of practices.
• Instructors with more than 20 years of industrial experience.
• Hands-on experiences relevant to industrial applications.
• Practical troubleshooting techniques applicable to commercial-scale units.

Safety Information for PSRI:

• Closed Toe Shoes Required: No high-heels, crocs, sandals, etc.
• Pants Required: No skirts, shorts, kilts, etc.
• Provided Safety Items:
  • Hard Hat (Return to PSRI)
  • Safety Glasses (You Keep)
  • Hearing Protection (You Keep)
• Photography/Videography: Strictly NO photography or videography allowed.
• Facility Accessibility: The facility will require climbing stairs.
• Heights: Those afraid of heights should opt out of the training.

Hotel Information: For details on accommodation, please visit the PSRI Hotel Page.

Fee:

• $1,750 USD for PSRI member company participants.
• $2,250 USD for non-member company participants. Note: All credit card transactions are processed through a United States payment gateway. Pre-authorization with your credit card provider may be necessary to avoid declines.