Fixed-bed and fluidized-bed
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What is the difference between a fixed-bed reactor and a fluidized-bed reactor? Each has its advantages and disadvantages; how do you determine which reactor to use?
In fixed-bed catalysts or systems with larger solid reactant particles, the fluid flows through the bed for the reaction to take place; the bed remains stationary, the flow velocity of the fluid is low, and there is no backmixing. For reactions with significant heat effects, heat transfer problems can arise. Fluidized bed catalysts have small solid particles, and are generally suitable for gas-solid catalytic reactions. The solid particles remain in a fluidized state, which facilitates mass and heat transfer and results in high conversion rates; however, there is the issue of catalyst dust being carried away. Different types of reactors should be selected according to different situations.