Numerical calculation of shapes and detachment times of bubbles generated from a sieve plate

A mathematical model describing the formation, breakage and rising of a gas bubble generated in a submerged orifice is proposed. The model considers an axisymmetric bubble based on a finite-difference formulation. The model can predict detachment of the bubble from the plate as a result of the predictive equations. Bubble shapes and detachment times obtained theoretically are compared with images of experimental bubbles obtained using high-speed video technology, finding good agreement between both. A theoretical description of the different stages of bubble formation and rising supported on the basic equations of fluid mechanics is the first step in the development of an accurate mass transfer correlation for devices where bubbles are generated in sieve plates.