Multiscale multiphase flow simulations using interface capturing and Lagrangian particle tracking

Abstract

Numerical simulations of multiphase flows with both interfaces and discrete particles are challenging because they possess a wide range of length and time scales. Meanwhile, the volume of fluid (VOF) method is suitable for resolving the interface, while the discrete particle model (DPM) under the Lagrangian frame better simulates unresolvable particles; a multiscale VOF–DPM combined model is urgently needed for multiscale multiphase flows. The present work implements a VOF–DPM solver that includes a two-way transition algorithm to model the transformation between discrete and continuous phases for bubbles or droplets using OpenFOAM. The interface-capturing scheme in the solver is based on the interIsoFoam solver, which supports the geometric reconstruction of the interface and adaptive mesh refinement. A connected component labeling approach is used for particle detection and VOF-to-DPM transition for discrete bubbles or droplets produced by interface breakup. Conversely, a DPM-to-VOF transition algorithm for particles touching the interface is incorporated to achieve a two-way transition. In addition, phase change modeling between continuous phases and bubble dynamic modeling for cavitating flow cases are also implemented in the solver. Test simulations are performed for validation, including the gas–liquid two-phase dam break and cavitating flow in a convergent–divergent test section. The results demonstrate that the solver is reasonably accurate and can adequately represent the complex phase structure, including the interface and discrete particles.