Evaluation of mechanistic models for coal gasification. Final technical report. [CHEMFLUB, FLAG, FLAME]

In the past US Department of Energy had sponsored projects for development of detailed mathematical models of gasification reactors. Four different mechanistic models were developed under these projects. They are CHEMFLUB and EF (Entrained Flow) developed by System Science and Software Inc. (SSS), and FLAG and FLAME developed by JAYCOR. CHEMFLUB and FLAG model fluidized-bed gasifiers, and EF and FLAME are the entrained flow gasifier models. The purpose of such models is to provide insight into the physical processes occurring in the reactors and to investigate the performances of various reactors designs. These models can also be used for predicting the scale up effects. However, the models can perform these tasks only if they are built around appropriate mathematical basis, and sound fundamental principles. In 1982 West Virginia University was awarded a two year contract to verify, and evaluate CHEMFLUB, FLAG, and FLAME. The overall objective of verification and evaluation was divided in five subtasks. These subtasks are as follows: (1) Testing of mathematical basis of the models; (2) Testing of numerical method of the models; (3) Testing model computer codes; (4) Exercising the models; and (5) Evaluation of model constitutive relations. This report documents the work performed over the duration of the contract and its extension. 24 refs.