Simulation of flow boiling of nanofluid in tube based on lattice Boltzmann model

Abstract

In this study, a lattice Boltzmann model of bubble flow boiling in a tube is established. The bubble growth, integration, and departure of 3% Al2O3-water nanofluid in the process of flow boiling are selected to simulate. The effects of different bubble distances and lateral accelerations a on the bubble growth process and the effect of heat transfer are investigated. Results showed that with an increase in the bubble distance, the bubble coalescence and the effect of heat transfer become gradual. With an increase in lateral acceleration a, the bubble growth is different. When a = 0.5e?7 and a = 0.5e?6, the bubble growth includes the process of bubble growth, coalescence, detachment, and fusion with the top bubble and when a = 0.5e?5 and a = 0.5e?4, the bubbles only experience growth and fusion, and the bubbles do not merge with the top bubble directly to the right movement because the lateral acceleration is too large, resulting in the enhanced effect of heat transfer in the tube.