The split of annular two-phase flow at a small diameter T-junction

This paper extends the range of diameters (0.009-0.127 m) for which informa tion on the maldistribution of the phases at a T-junction is available. Dat a are presented for a smaller T-junction whose diameter is 0.005 m in all b ranches. The flow rates studied result in annular flow approaching the junc tion. Cas superficial velocities of 46-60 mis and liquid superficial veloci ties of 15-20 m/s were studied. When the present data are compared to those from larger diameter junctions for similar superficial inlet velocities, i t is seen that decreasing the pipe diameter increases the fraction of liqui d taken off. It is suggested that this trend is due to the lower entrained fraction and more uniform film around of the pipe circumference for the sma ller pipes. The measured split data were compared with the predictions of p ublished models. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.