Effect of Operating Parameters on the Coalescence and Breakup of Bubbles in a Multiphase Pump Based on a CFD-PBM Coupled Model

When the multiphase pump is running, internal medium often exists as bubble flow. In order to investigate occurrence characteristics in pressurization unit of more accurately, this paper couples computational fluid dynamics (CFD) with a population balance model (PBM) size distribution law under different operating conditions, taking into account coalescence and breakup. The research shows that mean impeller domain gradually decreases from 1.7013 mm at inlet 0.6179 outlet along axis direction; average diameter diffuser fluctuates around 0.60 mm. bubbles region change trend breakup axial radial directions, tend be broken by vortex entrainment. development influenced gas volume fraction (IGVF) rotational speed, showing obvious rule, where phase aggregation phenomenon enhanced increase IGVF promotes makes increase. increased blade shearing effect speed breakup, which reduces bubbles. addition, increasing probability key factor leading changes size; not very sensitive flow, its maximum design conditions. results can accurately predict performance provide technical guidance for safe operation optimal design.