Euler-Euler modelling of bubble dynamics in flashing flows

A poly-disperse multiple-size-group approach, which is a class method of population balance, is developed for two-fluid modelling of the evolution of gas-liquid mixture during flash evaporation. Special efforts are dedicated to the development and validation of sub models for describing bubble nucleation, coalescence and breakup as well as interfacial heat transfer rates. The baseline model with a fixed set of closures for interphase momentum transfer and bubble-induced turbulence, which was proposed in the previous work and validated for isothermal cases, is extended by a mechanistic model for the overall heat transfer coefficient from liquid to gas-liquid interface, and the model for bubble growth and shrinkage due to phase change. The poly-disperse approach is applied to simulate evaporating pipe flow under pressure release transients, which is controlled by the operation of a blow-off valve. CFD-grade experimental data including local bubble size and void fraction as well as velocity distributions are available for model validation. The comparison demonstrates that the model is effective in capturing the temporal course of vapour bubbles’ generation and growth as well as their spatial distribution. The agreement between measured and simulated cross-section averaged flow parameters such as void fraction, liquid temperature and bubble size distribution is satisfying.