Fluid Mechanics and Heat Transfer in Multiphase Energy Systems

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The research program outlined in this proposal involves fundamental studies aimed at improving our understanding of the fluid flow, heat, and mass transfer processes encountered in energy systems. This improved understanding will enable us to develop new design methodologies for more efficient, economical, and safe energy systems. The studies proposed in this program span a fairly wide area of research relevant to multiphase systems, with and without phase change. The specific systems targeted in the proposed program include components in nuclear and conventional power plants, heat pipes, thermosyphons, refrigeration and air-conditioning systems, and flow distribution systems. The work on multiple discharges from two-phase headers involves experimental and analytical studies aimed for the accurate prediction of multiple discharges from two-phase headers (simulating the CANDU header-feeder system during accidents). The proposed research on two-phase flow in tee junctions (impacting and combining) aims to produce new experimental data and theoretical models (currently lacking in the literature) that could be used in advancing the design of multiphase flow-distribution systems, as well as identifying possible designs for simple and low-cost phase separators. Research on reflux condensation will follow a rigorous approach in modeling the pertinent heat and mass transfer processes. These results are relevant to the design of heat pipes and thermosyphons, and the safety analysis of passive condensers in the containment building of nuclear power plants. Overall, the results of this research program will not only contribute to fundamental knowledge in the area of two-phase flow, but also have significant impact on the safety analysis of CANDU header-feeder systems and passive condensers, the development of simple, low-cost phase separators, and the generation of (yet unavailable) design models for junctions used in multiphase flow-distribution systems. An important feature of the proposed research program is the training of highly-qualified personnel. Seven graduate students (doctoral and master's) will receive advanced training in this program.