Prediction of Mass Transfer Time Relaxation Parameter for Boiling Simulation on the Shell-Side of LNG Spiral Wound Heat Exchanger

Abstract

The objective of this present study is to propose an approach to predict mass transfer time relaxation parameter for boiling simulation on the shell-side of LNG spiral wound heat exchanger (SWHE). The numerical model for the shell-side of LNG SWHE was established. For propane and ethane, a predicted value of mass transfer time relaxation parameter was presented through the equivalent evaporation simulations and was validated by the Chisholm void fraction correlation recommended under various testing conditions. In addition, heat transfer deviations between simulations using the predicted value of mass transfer time relaxation parameter and experiments from Aunan were investigated. The boiling characteristics of SWHE shell-side were also visualized based on the simulations with VOF model. The method of predicting mass transfer time relaxation parameter may be well applicable to various phase change simulations.