Experimental investigation of interfacial wave in stratified low-viscosity-oil and water flow in horizontal and upward pipes

The effects of oil-water two-phase-stratified flow rates, inlet water cut and pipe inclinations on the characteristics of the interfacial wave were investigated experimentally. The experiment was conducted in a transparent acrylic tube with 20 mm ID, from horizontal to inclined (0 degrees, +3 degrees, +5 degrees, and +10 degrees), using water and No.15 industrial white oil (11.984 mPa center dot s at 40 degrees C) as test fluids. A high-speed digital camera has been equipped for visualization and a pair of conductivity probes for oil-water interface height measurement. The stratified flow pattern at different pipe inclinations and wave celerity were obtained using a camera. In addition, from the time series of the conductivity probes, the wave amplitude and wavelength were calculated. Results showed that the interfacial wave characteristics are strongly affected by flow rates, inlet water cut and pipe inclinations, and the analysis of these effects are based on the stabilizing force and destabilizing force of the oil-water flow.

Automated summary

This experimental study investigated the effects of oil-water two-phase-stratified flow rates, inlet water cut, and pipe inclinations on the characteristics of the interfacial wave. The results showed that the interfacial wave characteristics are strongly influenced by flow rates, inlet water cut, and pipe inclinations, with analysis based on the stabilizing force and destabilizing force of the oil-water flow.