Akimi Serizawa

Bio: Akimi Serizawa is an academic researcher from Kyoto University. The author has contributed to research in topics: Two-phase flow & Turbulence. The author has an hindex of 21, co-authored 49 publications receiving 2444 citations.

Computational fluid dynamics of dispersed two-phase flows at high phase fractions

Abstract: This study describes the development and validation of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) methodology for the simulation of dispersed two-phase flows. A two-fluid (Euler-Euler) methodology previously developed at Imperial College is adapted to high phase fractions. It employs averaged mass and momentum conservation equations to describe the time-dependent motion of both phases and, due to the averaging process, requires additional models for the inter-phase momentum transfer and turbulence for closure. The continuous phase turbulence is represented using a two-equation k − ε−turbulence model which contains additional terms to account for the effects of the dispersed on the continuous phase turbulence. The Reynolds stresses of the dispersed phase are calculated by relating them to those of the continuous phase through a turbulence response function. The inter-phase momentum transfer is determined from the instantaneous forces acting on the dispersed phase, comprising drag, lift and virtual mass. These forces are phase fraction dependent and in this work revised modelling is put forward in order to capture the phase fraction dependency of drag and lift. Furthermore, a correlation for the effect of the phase fraction on the turbulence response function is proposed. The revised modelling is based on an extensive survey of the existing literature. The conservation equations are discretised using the finite-volume method and solved in a solution procedure, which is loosely based on the PISO algorithm, adapted to the solution of the two-fluid model. Special techniques are employed to ensure the stability of the procedure when the phase fraction is high or changing rapidely. Finally, assessment of the methodology is made with reference to experimental data for gas-liquid bubbly flow in a sudden enlargement of a circular pipe and in a plane mixing layer. Additionally, Direct Numerical Simulations (DNS) are performed using an interface-capturing methodology in order to gain insight into the dynamics of free rising bubbles, with a view towards use in the longer term as an aid in the development of inter-phase momentum transfer models for the two-fluid methodology. The direct numerical simulation employs the mass and momentum conservation equations in their unaveraged form and the topology of the interface between the two phases is determined as part of the solution. A novel solution procedure, similar to that used for the two-fluid model, is used for the interface-capturing methodology, which allows calculation of air bubbles in water. Two situations are investigated: bubbles rising in a stagnant liquid and in a shear flow. Again, experimental data are used to verify the computational results.

Fundamental issues related to flow boiling in minichannels and microchannels

Abstract: Flow boiling in small hydraulic diameter channels is becoming increasingly important in many diverse applications. The previous studies addressing the effects of the channel size on the flow patterns, and heat transfer and pressure drop performance are reviewed in the present paper. The fundamental questions related to the presence of nucleate boiling and characteristics of flow boiling in microchannels and minichannels in comparison to that in the conventional channel sizes (3 mm and above) are addressed. Also, the effect of heat exchanger configuration—single-channel and multichannel—on the heat transfer and pressure drop performance is reviewed. The areas for future research are identified.