Prediction Models for Gas-liquid Two-phase Flow under Microgravity

Abstract

The drift-flux model and the flow regime transition model are of practical importance for two-phase flow analyses under microgravity conditions. This report outlines our previous studies on development of prediction models for gas-liquid twophase flow under reduced gravity and microgravity conditions. First, the drift flux model which takes the effects of gravity and frictional pressure loss into account are summarized. Next, the flow regime transition criteria which take the frictional pressure loss effect are briefly introduced. To evaluate the applicability of these models to microgravity condition, comparisons of the models with various experimental datasets taken under microgravity conditions are performed. Sample computations of the models are also performed under various gravity conditions such as microgravity and lunar, Martian and Earth surface gravities.