Investigation of Density Ratio Effects on Performance of Pseudo-Potential Model in Multiphase Flows Simulation

In this research, performance and capability of the developed pseudo-potential ShanChen model for simulation of multiphase flows with large density ratios are evaluated. This model is applied in the Palabos open source software which simulates fluid flows by means of the Lattice Boltzmann method. For this reason, some well-known multiphase benchmarks are investigated such as the Laplace law, segregation, bubbles coalescence and droplet impact with solid and liquid surfaces. According to the Laplace law, this model is capable of determining a wide range of surface tensions in different density ratios. In addition, this model is able to predict interface shape and phase segregation automatically very well. However, convergence rate is reduced as the density ratio increases. The simulation of two bubbles coalescence reveals that large spurious current and large interface oscillation are two main drawbacks of the pseudo-potential model. In droplet impact with a solid surface simulation, effects of density ratio which leads to a difference in surface tension and the Weber number are considered. When the Weber number is increased (at a constant Reynolds number), maximum spread increases but its vacillation decreases. Ultimately, results of the splash process show that the Weber number has a remarkable influence on breaking of a part of crown layer. Review History: Received: 27 October 2015 Revised: 2 January 2016 Accepted: 11 April 2016 Available Online: 3 September 2016