Simulating Spiraling Bubble Movement in the EL Approach

Abstract

Simulating the detailed movement of a rising bubble can be challenging, especially when it comes to bubble path instabilities. A solution based on the Euler Lagrange (EL) approach is presented, where the bubbles show oscillating shape and/or instable paths while computational cost are at a far lower level than in DNS. The model calculates direction, shape and rotation of the bubbles. A lateral force based on rotation and direction is modeled to finally create typical instable path lines. This is embedded in an EL simulation, which can resolve bubble size distribution, mass transfer and chemical reactions. A parameter study was used to choose appropriate model constants for a mean bubble size of 3 mm. To ensure realistic solution, validation against experimental data of single rising bubbles and bubble swarms are presented. References with 2D and also 3D analysis are taken into account to compare simulative data in terms of typical geometrical parameters and average field values.