Numerical Modeling of a Moving Particle in a Continuous Flow Subjected to Microwave Heating

Abstract

Microwave heating of a food particle and carrier liquid as they flow continuously in a circular pipe is investigated numerically. The three-dimensional transient fluid flow as well as electromagnetic and temperature fields are described by a model that includes coupled Maxwell's, continuity, Navier-Stokes, and energy equations. The electromagnetic power and temperature distributions in both the liquid and the particle are taken into account. The hydrodynamic interaction between the solid particle and the carrier fluid is simulated by the force-coupling method (FCM). This article explores the effects of dielectric properties and the inlet position of the particle on microwave energy and temperature distributions inside the particle. The effect of the particle on power absorption in the carrier liquid is studied as well. The results show that electromagnetic power absorption by the particle is greatly influenced by the ratio of dielectric properties of the particle and the liquid as well as the distance between the particle and the location in the applicator where the electromagnetic power takes on its maximum value.