Numerical Analysis of Critical Two-Phase Flow in a Convergent-Divergent Nozzle

Abstract

The numerical calculation of critical two-phase flow in a convergent-divergent nozzle is complicated by a singularity of the fluid flow equations at the unknown critical point. A method of calculating critical state and its location without any additional assumptions is described. The critical state is identified by its mathematical properties: characteristics and solvability of linear systems with a singular matrix. Because the numerically estimable mathematical properties are the only necessary conditions for the existence of critical flow, some physical ''compatibility criteria'' (flow velocity equals model-consistent two-phase sonic velocity; critical flow is independent of downstream flow state variations) are used as substitutes for mathematically sufficient conditions. Numerical results are shown for the critical flow through LOBI nozzles and for the Super Moby Dick experiment. The two-phase flow is described by a model with equal phase velocities and thermodynamic nonequilibrium.