Two-Phase Zero-Gravity Pressure-Drop Predictions from Single-Phase One-g Data

Abstract

The purpose of this work was to use a single-component, R-12, two-phase flow test loop to produce and collect pressure-drop data from the corrugated tubes and quick-disconnect components and develop correlations and prediction methods for two-phase pressure drops in normal and reduced gravity. Results show it is possible to predict the zero-gravity pressure drops through the corrugated tubes using the homogeneous equilibrium model and single-phase, ground-based pressure-drop measurements. It was also found that prediction of pressure drop through the quick-disconnect attachment could be obtained using the homogeneous equilibrium model (with single-phase ground-based measurements) coupled with an orifice pressure drop model. The use of single-phase, ground-based experiments to predict two-phase, reduced gravity component performance could yield significant cost savings and increased reliability of reduced gravity fluid systems.