The hydrodynamics of fluid bed cokers were studied by analyzing pressure fluctuations and particle motion in a half-column cold model, geometrically and dynamically similar (with key dimensionless groups matched) to the stripper section of two commercial fluid cokers. Superficial gas velocity and solids circulation strongly affected the hydrodynamics. The pressure drop over the top section of the stripper decreased at high solids circulation fluxes and high gas velocities due to flooding. Flooding occurred prematurely when fouling was simulated. Steam redistribution did not improve stripper performance for the conditions investigated. However, steep sheds on the top row, aeration behind the solids exit and standpipe aeration all improved solids circulation, leading to reduced fouling in two commercial fluid cokers.