Void fraction estimation within rod bundles based on three-fluid model and comparison with x-ray CT void data

An interfacial shear stress equation in the dispersed-annular two-phase flow regime has been developed, which is based on a three-fluid model consisting of a liquid film on a rod, vapor and entrained liquid associated with a vapor flow. It is an extension of J.G.M. Andersen's procedure that provides a two-fluid interfacial shear stress equation using the drift flux parameters C₀ and V_gj. This interfacial shear stress equation can take into account a phase and velocity distribution through an equivalence between the drift flux parameters and the interfacial shear stress. Using the three-fluid subchannel analysis code TEMPO with the three-fluid interfacial shear stress model, the capability of a three-fluid calculation using the drift flux parameters C₀ and V_gj that reproduce a measured void fraction is demonstrated. A comparison was made with advanced X-ray computed tomography (CT) void fraction data within a 4×4 rod bundle in diabatic 1 MPa pressure conditions. The three-fluid velocity field was estimated to be in good agreement with the experimental result of a void fraction.