Two-phase bubbly flow simulation using CFD method: A review of models for interfacial forces

Abstract

The computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method has been widely adopted and accepted in the nuclear reactor safety analysis in the recent years. Especially, the application of computational multiphases fluid dynamics (CMFD) is very common in different industrial applications, and definitely in the pressurized water reactor (PWR). In two-phase bubbly flow simulation, the momentum exchange between the phases requires interfacial forces i.e., interfacial drag, lift, turbulent dispersion, wall lubrication, and virtual mass. In the past, numerous models were developed for these interfacial forces with reasonable accuracy. However, agreement on the generally applicable combination of models for these interfacial forces is yet to be achieved. The selection of proper models for these interfacial forces is very important to successfully predict the bubbles concentration distribution and velocity profile. Currently, the practice of interfacial forces model selection from numerous models is mostly ad-hoc based. Therefore, in this article current status of interfacial forces models within the prospect of two-phase bubbly flow CFD simulation are summarized and then parametric dependence, and ranges of applicability of these models are reviewed. Furthermore, some of the limitations of the models for these interfacial forces are determined and future recommendations are made.