Improving gas distribution and evaporation in gas cooling tower at Norcem Brevik

Abstract

In this work, the effect of the geometry of a GCT (Gas Cooling Tower) on the flue gas distribution in a cooling tower in Norcem, Brevik is investigated by using CPFD (Computational Particle Fluid Dynamics) modeling and simulation. Barracuda Virtual Reactor is used to perform the simulations of a baseline model, representative of the existing cooling tower. Results from simulations show poor distribution of flue gas and recirculation zones occurring on both sides of the distribution screen. The cause of this uneven distribution is attributed to challenging geometry and poor screen performance. To counteract this problem, a new model is developed with a second screen and guide vanes. The screens are placed in the lower part of the GCT’s diffusor, whilst the guide vanes are in the diffusor’s inlet duct. The screens and guide vanes are modeled as baffle computational cells with zero thickness. The implementation of a second screen eliminates the recirculation zone below the screens and improve the distribution.