Review on bubble dynamic of subcooled flow boiling-part b: Behavior and models

Abstract

Subcooled flow boiling is extensively applied in engineering systems and greatly improves efficiency owing to bubbles' existence and associated heat exchange enhancement. However, accidents may occur as a result of the lack of understanding and control over subcooled flow boiling, which may lead to unnecessary losses. In this respect, bubble dynamic of subcooled flow boiling disposes of an important research significance, which pushes further the understanding of the boiling mechanism. The purpose of this review is to discuss bubble dynamic involved in subcooled flow boiling and summarize current research status on the so-far-utilized models and applications in this field. In this respect, this review discussed the bubble behavior of a bubble life cycle briefly, where key bubble dynamic parameters have also been introduced. In addition, bubble growth, departure, and lift-off behavior, as well as influencing factors were discussed. Finally, recent advances in bubble sliding and the application of bubble dynamic in boiling simulation have been presented. This article's content deeply contributes to a further understanding of subcooled flow boiling, and the application of bubble dynamic to realize the heat transfer enhancement, subsequently allowing for gains in system efficiency and safety margins.