Three‐dimensional flow of fluids through nonuinform packed beds

Through the statement of the Ergun equation in a vectorial form, a formulation is presented for three‐dimensional flow of fluids through packed beds having a spatially variable resistance to flow. The equations were put in a form convenient for numerical solution by successive over‐relaxation, and a selection of computed results is presented for cylindrical beds where the nonuniform resistance to flow obeys axial symmetry. The method outlined in the paper for calculating flow maldistribution in packed beds is thought to be a necessary first step in the representation of hot spot formation and flow nonuniformities in packed bed reactors.