Simulation of bubbly flow in vertical pipes by coupling Lagrangian and Eulerian models with 3D random walks models: Validation with experimental data using multi-sensor conductivity probes and Laser Doppler Anemometry

A set of two phase flow experiments for different conditions ranging from bubbly flow to cap/slug flow have been performed under isothermal concurrent upward air–water flow conditions in a vertical column of 3 m height. Special attention in these experiments was devoted to the transition from bubbly to cap/slug flow. The interfacial velocity of the bubbles and the void fraction distribution was obtained using 2 and 4 sensors conductivity probes.Numerical simulations of these experiments for bubbly flow conditions were performed by coupling a Lagrangian code with an Eulerian one. The first one tracks the 3D motion of the individual bubbles in cylindrical coordinates (r, ϕ, z) inside the fluid field under the action of the following forces: buoyancy, drag, lift, wall lubrication. Also we have incorporated a 3D stochastic differential equation model to account for the random motion of the individual bubbles in the turbulent velocity field of the carrier liquid. Also we have considered the deformations undergone by the bubbles when they touch the walls of the pipe and are compressed until they rebound.The velocity and turbulence fields of the liquid phase were computed by solving the time dependent conservation equations in its Reynolds Averaged Transport Equation form (RANS). The turbulent kinetic energy k, and the dissipation rate ɛ transport equations were simultaneously solved using the k, epsilon model in a (r, z) grid by the finite volume method and the SIMPLER algorithm. Both Lagrangian and Eulerian calculations were performed in parallel and an iterative self-consistent method was developed. The turbulence induced by the bubbles is an important issue considered in this paper, in order to obtain good predictions of the void fraction distribution and the interfacial velocity at different gas and liquid flow conditions.

► We have simulated bubbly flow in vertical pipes by coupling a Lagrangian model to an Eulerian one, and to a 3D random walk model.
► A set of experiments in a vertical column with isothermal co-current two phase flow have been performed and used to validate the previous model.
► We have investigated the influence of the turbulence induced by the bubbles on the results.
► Comparison of experimental and computed results has been performed for different boundary conditions.