Mass transfer enhancement and flow field simulations for a Venturi bubble generator with multiple inlet tubes

Abstract

The Venturi device plays a crucial role in the Filtered Containment Venting System (FCVS), effectively preventing the release of radioactive pollutants from nuclear reactor containment during overpressure events. Various configurations of the Venturi device yield different outcomes, with mass transfer efficiency being contingent on bubble size and overall gas holdup. This study examines the impact of varying numbers of inlet tubes on the Venturi device, while keeping the inlet area constant. Specifically looking at the gas–liquid flow field, bubble behavior, and mass transfer capacity in the diverging section. By comparing Single Inlet Tube Venturi Device (SITVD) and Double Inlet Tubes Venturi Device (DITVD), we have reached the following conclusions: (1) In SITVD, the liquid flow field is biased to one side, whereas in DITVD, the liquid flows along the axial direction, resulting in bubbles experiencing stronger shear forces. (2) DITVD exhibits a higher overall gas holdup compared to SITVD, with an average axial gas holdup of 0.0317, which is greater than SITVD's 0.0247. However, SITVD's gas holdup is more evenly distributed. (3) SITVD exhibits a higher turbulence dissipation rate of 545 m2/s3, while the bubble residence time in DITVD is comparatively longer. (4) The average bubble diameter of DITVD is 1.116 mm, which is higher than the 1.011 mm of SITVD. (5) DITVD has better mass transfer than SITVD. The proposed structure of the new Venturi scrubber in this study demonstrates a significant enhancement in mass transfer capacity and filtration efficiency. This discovery provides a solid basis for the design and optimization of FCVS, thereby ensuring the safe operation of nuclear reactors.