Hydrodynamic Evaluation of Five Influent Distribution Systems in a Cylindrical UASB Reactor Using CFD Simulations

UASB reactors are a promising option for environmentally friendly wastewater treatment due to their reduced carbon footprint and capacity treat variety of strengths, among other recognized advantages over alternative systems. The Influent Distribution System (IDS) is critical structure generating granules in reactor since it provides the required flow hydrodynamics formation. Thus, objective this study was evaluate compare efficiency five IDS configurations generate ideal granulation conditions using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. were as follows: (C1) single radial inflow, (C2) upward axial (C3) downward distributed two novel form (C4) double opposite inflow (C5) tangential inflow. hydrodynamic response configuration C1 validated physical model with dynamic Froude similitude. measurement velocity-based reaction zone steady-state CFD C4 one that resulted highest volume, up 45.5% potential volume reactor, contrast C2 obtained lowest only 10.8%. Results confirm directly impacts model-based design can be used ascertain better promote reactors.