Flow of viscoplastic fluids through fixed beds of particles: comparison of three approaches

Three approaches suggested for the purposes of calculation of pressure drop in flow of non-Newtonian fluids through fixed beds representing the capillary concept are compared, i.e. the Blake–Kozeny concept, the Kozeny–Carman concept, and the concept which solves the problem using the integral forms of the momentum balance, the equation of continuity of flow, and the Rabinowitsch–Mooney equation. The comparison with experimental results for viscoplastic fluids (VPF) characterized by the Herschel–Bulkley flow model given in literature leads to a conclusion that the most reliable results are obtained from the approach which used the correct integral forms of governing equations. Also discussed is the possibility of its application for the purposes of calculation of the pressure drop in flow of viscoelastic fluids through fixed beds.