The nature of heat transfer in circulating fluidized beds (CFBs) by particle convection was revealed from the experimental results of the particle flux in the lateral direction. As particles contact and rebound from the heat transfer surface because of their lateral motion, they establish a large local temperature gradient. Heat from particles is then transferred primarily through the gas to the heat transfer surface. The data of the lateral particle flux provide a basis to establish a model of heat transfer in CFBs.