Session: FSI-02-01 The David S. Weaver Memorial Session on Flow Induced Vibration: Tube Arrays

Paper Number: 123360

123360 - A Model for Fluidelastic Instability of Tube Arrays Subjected to Two-Phase Flow 

Flow-induced vibrations are an important consideration in the design and operation of steam generators.  Fluidelastic instability (FEI) is considered to be the primary concern as it can lead to tube failure. The U-bend region of a nuclear steam generator is subjected to two-phase flow.  The vast majority of the available models for FEI predict the stability threshold for single-phase flows. This paper proposes a numerical model for FEI in two-phase flow.,  buildt on the foundations of the Hassan and Weaver fluidelastic model.  The model equations are modified and redeveloped to account for two-phase flows. The methodology simplifies the flow inside the tube arrays as series of flow channels.  The two-phase flow in each channel is represented by a series of zones each of which  is characterized by a distinct void fraction.  These zones are travelling at the average pitch velocity in the array.  The work is extended to include effects such as  zone-specific thickness variations to reflect the diverse void fraction profiles. A significant element lies in the integration of a slip model, enabling an accurate representation of inter-phase slip effects. The proposed model aims to address the complexities of fluidelastic instability in the presence of two-phase flows. This research not only contributes to advancing the theoretical foundations of fluidelastic instability but also presents a valuable tool for predicting and mitigating flow-induced instabilities in nuclear power systems.

Presenting Author: Hossein Farani Sani University of Guelph

Presenting Author Biography: Born in Iran and completed his Bachelor's at K.N.Toosi university and his master's at Tarbiat Modares in Tehran. He is now a Ph.D. student in the University of Guelph

Authors:

Hossein Farani Sani University of Guelph
Marwan Hassan University of Guelph
Joaquin Moran Sheridan College