A model for steam bubble formation at a submerged nozzle in flowing subcooled water

A non-spherical model for bubble formation coupled with phase change at a s ubmerged nozzle in a flowing subcooled liquid is presented. The interface e lement approach is applied to describe the dynamics of bubble formation. Th e bubble is assumed to be surrounded by a thin thermal boundary layer, in w hich the saturated steam condenses partially as the bubble grows. The effec t of a parallel flowing liquid is taken into account by pressure analysis o f surrounding liquid. The results computed front present model are compared with the experimental data in the literature as well as with the results c omputed front other models. The results are in good agreement and show a si gnificant improvement over other models. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.