Two-phase CFD Modelling and Validation : SH204X Master Thesis Project Report

Abstract: This project deals with two-phase CFD model validation, a subject which is currently under active research due to its complexity. The goal is to create a model that predicts data profiles to an acceptable degree for a wide array of flow conditions. The applications within the nuclear field would mainly be for safety analysis, e.g. to predict phenomena such as the critical heat flux. The underlying physics were investigated, and simulations were performed of two-phase flow of the coolant R12 using the program OpenFOAM in an attempt to match radial profiles of void fraction, interfacial area concentration, vapour velocity and sauter mean diameter for different flow conditions provided by the DEBORA experiments. The proper set of models was found via sensitivity testing: trying combinations of different models and model coefficients. The effect on the simulation result was investigated, with the models that improved the result kept while the rest were discarded. The main strategy was to find models that accurately predicted the sauter mean diameter, as initial sensitivity tests showed the result to be highly dependent on this parameter. The impact of initial conditions and mesh refinement was also investigated, and a temperature validation study was done. The process was aided by a number of Matlab programs written by the author, to calculate and verify inputs and to post-process the result. A model was found that simulated the subcooled nucleate boiling datasets to an acceptable degree. The model failed to accurately simulate saturated nucleate boiling.