Validation of the use of heat transfer models in liquid/solid fluidized beds for ice slurry generation

Heat transfer coefficients in a liquid/solid fluidized bed heat exchanger are investigated for application in ice slurry generators. A range of temperature driving forces is determined in which ice slurry generation is stable. In this range ice crystal formation or growth does not affect heat transfer coefficients. A model is proposed that accurately predicts heat transfer coefficients in the fluidized bed ice slurry generator. Due to lower temperatures and higher viscosity in ice slurry generation, heat transfer coefficients measured are lower than predicted with heat transfer correlations specific for liquid/solid fluidized bed heat exchangers. Heat transfer coefficients measured are however significantly higher than for single phase fluid flow.