Digital strategies to improve the product quality and production efficiency of fluorinated polymers: 2. Heat removal performance of reactor with internal and external cooling systems

A reactor's heat transfer efficiency can be significantly enhanced and the fluid temperature uniformity can be controlled through introducing cooling water in the agitator and regulating the flow ratio of cooling water in the agitator and jacket. This work aims to study the heat transfer performance of a sophisticated industrial suspension polymerization reactor, which is distinguished by its complex blade structure and capability in efficient heat removal as well as its precise control over temperature distribution through adjusting the flow ratio of cooling water in the agitator and jacket. To achieve this goal, the impact of flow ratio and agitator speed on the heat removal rate and fluid temperature gradient is systematically investigated by CFD simulation. Several indicators are developed to quantitatively assess the reactor's heat transfer capability and fluid temperature uniformity. In addition, a thorough investigation is undertaken to analyze the possible mechanisms by which these factors exert their influence on the heat transfer performance of the reactor. Finally, some strategies for optimal performance through adjusting operational parameters of this type of reactors are proposed.