Microgravity flow regime data and analysis

To utilize the advantageous properties of two-phase flow in microgravity applications, the knowledge base of two-phase flow phenomena must be extended to include the effects of gravity. In the experiment described, data regarding the behavior of two-phase flow in a conduit under microgravity conditions (essentially zero gravity) are explored. Of particular interest, knowledge of the void fraction of the gas and liquid in a conduit is necessary to develop models for heat and mass transfer, pressure drop, and wall shear. An experiment was conducted under reduced gravity conditions to collect data by means of a capacitance void fraction sensor and high speed visual imagery. Independent parameters were varied to map the flow regime regions. These independent parameters include gas and liquid volumetric flow rates and saturation pressures. Void fraction measurements were taken at a rate of 100 Hz with six sensors at two locations along the conduit. Further, statistical parameters were developed from the void fraction measurements. Statistical parameters such as variance, signal-to-noise ratio, half height value, and linear area difference were calculated and found to have characteristics allowing flow regime identification.