MODELING OF THE METHANOL TO FORMALDEHYDE OXIDATION PROCESS IN MULTI-TUBULAR REACTOR IN CONSIDERATION OF THE FLOW NON-UNIFORMITY
The results of aerodynamic and mathematical modeling of the multi-tubular reactor for methanol to formaldehyde oxidative conversion are presented. CFD-modeling was employed with the FLUENT package and revealed the existence of significant gas flow non-uniformities in the upstream space above the catalytic tubes. Mathematical modelling of the process over Fe-Mo catalyst was performed in consideration of the actual non-uniformity factor in various tubes. This approach allows the study of the effect of uneven flow distribution on the temperature and concentration modes of reactor operation, as well as on the total reactor productivity. The obtained results are of practical interest for the analysis of industrial tubular reactor performance.