Experimental Study of Two-Phase Flows Under Reduced Gravity Conditions

Abstract

Study of gas-liquid two-phase flows under reduced gravity conditions is very important for space applications such as active thermal control systems. Two-fluid model along with Interfacial Area Transport Equation (IATE) is a useful tool available to dynamically predict the behavior of such two-phase flows under normal and reduced gravity conditions. As part of a big program experiments were carried out in a 304 mm inner diameter test facility on earth to generate a detailed experimental data base which is required for the evaluation of two-fluid model along with IATE under reduced gravity conditions. In the present case reduced gravity condition is simulated using two-liquids of similar densities. Such a large diameter test section was chosen to study the development of drops to their full. Twelve flow conditions were chosen around predicted bubbly flow to cap-bubbly flow transition region. Detailed local data was obtained at ten radial locations for each of three axial locations using double-sensor conductivity probes. Some of the results are presented here and discussed.