A non-spherical model for bubble formation with liquid cross-flow

A non-spherical model for bubble formation at an orifice with liquid cross- flow has been developed. The interface element approach is applied to descr ibe the dynamics of bubble formation. The effect of liquid cross-flow on th e bubble formation process is modelled by a combination of tilting of the b ubble axis and liquid pressure analysis of each element on the bubble inter face. Model predictions compare well with the experimental results availabl e in the literature for different conditions of gas flow rate, orifice diam eter and liquid cross-flow velocity. Simulated bubble shapes are highly non -spherical, especially at high liquid velocities, and bear a striking resem blance with the experimental high-speed video sequences. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.