Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Experimental study of Two-Phase Flow Patterns Gas-Liquid with Low Viscosity in a Horizontal Capillary Pipe

Abstract

This paper describes a new corresponding between computational and experimental data of two-phase flow in mini pipe with low viscosity of fluid. Computational Fluid Dynamics is needed to predict the phenomenon before conducting experimental study in order to get an expected appropriate result. The simulation was carried out on the two-dimensional horizontal capillary pipe with a diameter of 1.6 mm and a length of 100 mm. The simulation used air-water with glycerin of 0%, 10%, 20%, and 30%, and liquid superficial velocity (JL) = 0.033 m/s – 4.935 m/s, gas superficial velocity (JG) = 9.62 m/s as well. The experimental research used same parameter relatively with the simulation. The results showed the good corresponding between simulation and experimental data for a slug-annular, annular and churn flow patterns. The viscosity affects significantly the abundance of liquid that clings to the inner walls of the pipe. The higher liquid viscosity will increase wave and stuck in the inner pipe wall.