An Improved Enthalpy-Based Lattice Boltzmann 3D Model with Added Probability Function for the Growth Characteristics of Frost Layer

Abstract

In this paper, the effects of different surface properties on the growth of frost layer were numerically studied from the mesoscopic scale using the lattice Boltzmann method. The improved enthalpy method and nucleation probability model were combined to establish a three-dimensional lattice Boltzmann model based on nucleation probability theory. The model was used to carry out numerical research on frost layer formation and growth process on cold wall surface. The model could not only simulate the gradual densification and thickening process of frost layer growth from the macro scale, but also describe the change process of the frost layer structure caused by ice branch growth on the micro scale. The average thickness, average density and the amount of the frost layer could be obtained. Through this model, the temporal and spatial evolution characteristics of the topography of the frost layer were obtained. The model was used to analyze the effects of cold wall surface temperature, relative humidity and cold surface wettability on the frosting characteristics. The average thickness, frost average density, frost quality and average solid volume fraction of frost at different times were obtained by calculation.