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.