Numerical Simulation and Experimental Analysis of Dynamic Continuous Operation of Low-Concentration Coalbed-Methane-Mixing Device

Abstract

The concentration of low-concentration coalbed methane extracted from underground coal mine fluctuates greatly, which does not meet the requirements of intake concentration of coalbed-methane utilization devices. Due to this fluctuation, the coalbed-methane-utilization device cannot maintain stable and safe operation. The gas-mixing device is mainly used in coalbed-methane-utilization systems, providing each with a stable feed gas source with qualified concentration. In order to solve the problems of unsatisfactory uniformity of gas mixing and the large resistance of the existing coalbed-methane-mixing device, the mathematical model of the internal flow of the gas-mixing device is established. The influence of the internal structure of the gas-mixing device on the change in the uniformity of gas mixing and resistance loss is studied by numerical simulation and experiment. When the flow is 7000 Nm3/h, 50,000 Nm3/h and 160,000 Nm3/h, respectively, the spiral structure combination of L-N-R, N-L-R and L-N-R is optimal (L, R, N indicate left rotation, right rotation and without setting screw, respectively). There are some defects in the processing technology of the experimental device, which make the simulation and experimental data different. The numerical simulation of the gas-mixing process inside the unit can provide technical means for reducing resistance and improving the uniformity of gas mixing, and provide a stable gas source and safety measures for the coalbed-methane-utilization unit.