Void fraction distribution in sparged and boiling reactors with modern impeller configuration

Vertical void fraction distributions in cold gassed, hot sparged and boiling systems using different agitators with multiple modern hollow blade and up-pumping wide-blade hydrofoil impellers are reported. The void fraction in boiling systems is dramatically different from that in cold gassed or hot sparged systems whether in terms of value or distribution. Under the same gas phase output conditions, the void fraction is much smaller in boiling systems than in cold gassed or hot sparging systems. Hot sparged systems have similar vertical void fraction distributions, with maxima in similar locations but with smaller void fractions overall, like those of cold gassed systems. The results are of particular relevance to the design and operation of reactors with hot sparging or boiling liquids.