Structure of a turbulent bubbly flow and heat transfer in a vertical tube

Abstract

The results of numerical simulation of the flow structure and heat transfer in a vertical polydispersed bubbly flow are presented. The mathematical model is based on the Euler approach taking into account the effect of bubbles on the mean characteristics and turbulence of the carrier phase. The polydispersed distribution of bubbles size in a two-phase flow is modeled by the method of delta approximation considering the process of bubble break-up and coalescence. Carrier phase (fluid) turbulence is predicted using the Reynolds stress transport model. The simulation results showed good agreement with the experimental data presented in the literature. The measured and predicted thermal-hydraulic parameter distribution indicates that in a turbulent bubbly flow, the wall friction increase is greater than heat transfer enhancement.