Prediction of the circumferential distribution of film thickness in horizontal and near-horizontal gas-liquid annular flows

Abstract

A theoretical model for predicting the circumferential film thickness distribution in horizontal and near-horizontal annular two-phase flows is presented. It is based upon a disturbance wave flow model which consists of disturbance waves and a base film. It differs from Laurinat's and Lin's models in tbat liquid is transferred in the circumferential direction by the pumping action of disturbance waves, which counteracts the drainage due to gravity, and that the effects of the induced secondary flow in the gas flow and the surface tension force bave minor effects on the formation of the liquid film near the top of the tube cross section. The film thickness distribution predicted by the present model agrees with the experimental data much better than those predicted by Laurinat's model.