Large eddy simulation of water jets under transcritical and supercritical conditions

To obtain super/transcritical water jet characteristics, large eddy simulations (LES) are performed for the process of cool water injection into high-temperature environment under supercritical pressure. Jets with different density ratio under supercritical pressure are compared in terms of instantaneous flow field, mean flow properties, turbulence characteristics and heat transfer characteristics. Results show that under the present conditions (Froude number Fr < 50), compared with the initial momentum, buoyancy effect has a greater influence on the jet flow, and jet with higher density difference can obtain a higher jet velocity, thus achieving better heat transfer and mixing. Meanwhile, the enhancement of turbulence weakens the influence of high density gradient layer on jet stability. In addition, acceleration causes jet to contract at the outlet, enhancing radial turbulence and heat transfer.

Automated summary

In this study, large eddy simulations were performed to investigate the characteristics of supercritical water jets. The results show that buoyancy effect and density difference have a significant impact on the flow of the jet. The enhancement of turbulence weakens the influence of high density gradient layer on jet stability. Acceleration causes jet contraction and enhances radial turbulence and heat transfer.