Hydrodynamics in a Bubble Column – Part 1: Two‐Phase Flow

Abstract

Abstract Multiphase computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation is a useful tool to study the hydrodynamics in a bubble column if appropriate closure models are known. Systematic assessment of different models is an ongoing venture that benefits from improved validation data. The present study accumulates a database on two‐phase flow experiments in a bubble column. This is achieved by using a combination of particle image velocimetry and shadowgraphy to measure the liquid velocity field and gas dispersion properties simultaneously. This methodology is applied for different needle diameters and gas flow rates. The experimental data are compared with CFD simulations which show good predictions. A systematic investigation of the three‐phase flow in the bubble column will appear as a sequel.