Two-phase flow patterns across triangular tube bundles for air-water upward flow

Author(s)

Kanizawa, Fabio Toshio ^[1] ; Ribatski, Gherhardt ^[1]

Affiliation

^[1] Univ Sao Paulo, Sao Carlos Sch Engn, Heat Transfer Res Grp, Ave Trabalhador Sao Carlense 400, BR-13566590 Sao Paulo - Brazil

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MULTIPHASE FLOW; v. 80, p. 43-56, APR 2016.
• Web of Science Citations: 11

Abstract

This paper presents flow pattern experimental results obtained during two-phase upward flow across a horizontal tube bundle. Experiments were performed for flows across a normal triangular tube bundle with 19 mm OD tubes and transversal pitch of 24 mm. Results were obtained for gas and liquid superficial velocities ranging from 013 to 10.00 m/s and 0.02 to 1.50 m/s, respectively. Flow patterns were identified subjectively based on visual observations through side windows, and objectively using the k-means clustering method based on signals of a differential pressure transducer and a capacitive sensor. Bubbles, large bubbles, dispersed bubbles, churn, intermittent and annular flow patterns were identified subjectively. The clustering method satisfactorily identified groups of data corresponding to the distinct flow patterns, which were compared with predictive methods available in the open literature. New predictive methods for transitions between flow patterns are proposed based on the flow patterns identified objectively. The proposed methods predicted accurately the data obtained in the present study as well as experimental results and flow pattern maps available in the open literature for distinct geometries. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 15/00854-5 - Characterization of external two-phase flow across tube bundles
• Grantee: Fabio Toshio Kanizawa
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Post-doctor
• FAPESP's process: 14/06902-9 - Theoretical and experimental study of flow induced vibration during external two-phase flow across tube bundle
• Grantee: Fabio Toshio Kanizawa
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• FAPESP's process: 10/20670-2 - Theoretical and Experimental study of Void Fraction and Flow Pattern Induced Vibration on Tubes Bundle
• Grantee: Fabio Toshio Kanizawa
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate