Three dimensional CFD simulation and experimental study of power law fluid spreading on inclined plates

The falling film flow of a power law fluid on inclined plates has been studied experimentally and a finite volume code has been used to analyze the dynamics of flow numerically. CMC solution, as a power law fluid, with different concentrations (1.1%, 1.5% and 2%) has been selected as the operating fluid. Inclined plates with different inclination angles α(0 < α < π/2) and assorted surfaces (ceramics, aluminum and glass) were used to study the effect of rheological properties, inclination and contact angle on the vital parameters. Simulation is performed by a version of VOF family of algorithms, CICSAM, which is used to track the air-liquid interface. Surface tension and contact angle effects are also considered in formulations. Extensive unsteady 3D calculations are carried out to predict velocity of falling film. Shape, width and thickness of film are also predicted and are compared with experimental results. Very good agreement between experimental data and simulation prediction is observed.