3D CFD simulation of flashing flows in a converging-diverging nozzle

Flashing of initially sub-cooled water in a vertical circular converging-diverging nozzle is simulated with two-fluid model incorporating drag and non-drag forces. Phase change is assumed to be induced only by interphase heat transfer while pressure jump across the interface is ignored. The reliability of CFD simulations is confirmed by comparison with experimental data and one-dimensional results basing on a drift-flux model. Satisfactory prediction of mass flow rate and cross-section averaged parameters is achieved. The predicted radial distribution of void fraction is however much more flat than the measured one. The discrepancy is found to be caused by the effect of lift force and the reversal of relative velocity. Cases characterised with large pressure-undershoot exhibit significant pressure non-equilibrium effect in form of a pressure recovery process. Sensitivity tests on bubble number density, heat transfer coefficient as well as nucleation are performed.