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TUALP Abstract
 

Bengt Kenneth Pedersen (Master of Science in Petroleum Engineering)
Experimental Study of Pressure Drop in Vertical Two-Phase Flow
(408 pp. - Chapter V)
Directed by Dr. Zelimir Schmidt
(150 words)

This study presents a n improved des ign and operation of a full-scale experimental facility for measurement of pressure gradients and liquid holdup in vertical two-phase flow.

A two channel gamma-ray densitometer for measuring liquid holdup and fluid distribution was redesigned and calibrated. The sensitivity to flow pattern was investigated using acrylic material. Models for the instrument' s behavior were developed.

Simulation programs were written to a id select ion of operational variables and system configurations needed for achieving desired flowing conditions.

One hundred thirteen two-phase tests for air and water flow through 3.0 inch inside diameter tubing for a wide range of flowing conditions were acquired. Programs to evaluate seven correlations and one mechanistic model using the experimental data were constructed.

Bubble, upper slug and annular flow were best predicted by the Hagedorn and Brown correlation, while the central and lower slug flow region was best predicted by the Duns and Ros correlation.

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Last updated September 04, 2012