A computational particle fluid dynamics model of a pilot scale circulating fluidized bed (CFB) was used to numerically simulate its gas-solid flow characteristics. The bed pressure drop characteristics of the CFB were obtained for different bed material heights. The accuracy of the model was confirmed by comparing the simulation results with experimental data. The minimum fluidization velocity was found by simulation, and the pressure distribution, gas-solid velocity, and particle concentration were further analyzed. The simulation results provide a reference for further understanding of the flow characteristics in CFBs. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.