Title: Experimental and analytical study of two-phase flow in zero gravity. Final report, September 1985-October 1987
Abstract: More-effective and -efficient thermal-transport techniques will be needed for heat rejection from equipment on satellites. Circulating two-phase fluid loops were suggested and laboratory tested for possible application in the above areas. In comparison to a single-phase loop, the two-phase system operates at considerably smaller flow rates and maintains a tighter temperature control with higher heat-transfer coefficients. However, the two-phase fluid-flow regimes, pressure gradients, and heat-transfer coefficients must be evaluated for application in the weightless environment of an orbiting satellite. This projecting studies two-phase flow behavior under zero-gravity conditions. The overall objectives of this study were to generate a data base for two-phase pressure drop and the void-quality relationship under simulated zero gravity conditions and to develop analytical models to predict these parameters for bubbly and annular flow. The simulation of zero-gravity two-phase flow was achieved by using two immiscible liquids with equal densities to eliminate the buoyancy component. Although this approach does not eliminate the gravity effects, it provides a representation for void distribution in the absence of gravity. The modeling effort is limited to developing relations for the two-phase friction multiplier and void-quality relation under bubbly and annular-flow conditions. The bubbly flow model is based on the assumption ofmore » local homogeneous conditions between the phases but allows for void distribution in the radial direction. Separated-flow conservation equations are used, and single-phase turbulent flow eddy diffusivity relations are employed.« less
Publication Year: 1988
Publication Date: 1988-03-01
Language: en
Type: article
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