Three-dimensional mathematical modeling of dispersed two-phase flow using class method of population balance in bubble columns

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of bubble columns have received recently much attention and several multiphase models have been developed, tested, and validated through comparison with experimental data. In this work, we propose a model for two-phase flows at high phase fractions. The inter-phase forces (drag, lift and virtual mass) with different closure terms are used and coupled with a classes method (CM) for population balance. This in order to predict bubble's size distribution in the column which results of break-up and coalescence of bubbles. Since these mechanisms result greatly of turbulence, a dispersed k-is an element of turbulent model is used. The results are compared to experimental data available from the literature using a mean bubble diameter approach and CM approach and the appropriate formulations for inter-phase forces in order to predict the flow are highlighted. The above models are implemented using the open source package OpenFoam. Crown Copyright (C) 2008 Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.