Comparative study of wall-force models for the simulation of bubbly flows

Accurate numerical prediction of void-fraction profiles in bubbly multiphase-flow relies on suitable closure models for the momentum exchange between liquid and gas phases. We here consider forces acting on the bubbles in the vicinity of a wall. A number of different models for this so-called wall-force have been proposed in the literature and are implemented in widely used CFD-codes. Simulations using a selection of these models are compared with a set of experimental data on bubbly air–water flow in round pipes of different diameter. Based on the results, recommendations on suitable closures are given.

► Comparison of common models for the wall force with an experimental database.
► Identification of suitable closure for bubbly flow.
► Enables prediction of location and height of wall peak in void fraction profiles.