A Semi-Empirical Model for an OC-OTEC Spout Flash Evaporator

by S. M. Ghiaasiaan, Science Applications Int Corp, United States,
A. T. Wassel, Science Applications Int Corp, United States,
G. C. Nihous, Science Applications Int Corp, United States,
L. Vega, Science Applications Int Corp, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Ocean Energy Recovery

Abstract:

A phenomenological model for the thermal-hydraulics of a spout flash evaporator is presented in this paper. The model considers the two-phase flow behavior both in the spout and in the vapor space. A non-equilibrium two-phase flow model, which accounts for evaporation at the gas-liquid interface is used to predict the flow conditions at the spout exit. The liquid leaving the spout is assumed to form a spray in the vapor space, with a log-normal size distribution. The residence time of the droplets is calculated from Newton's second law, and is utilized in calculating the evaporative cooling of the droplets. Model predictions are compared with available experimental data, and parametric calculations are performed which show the effects of flow and geometric parameters on the evaporator thermal performance.

Subject Headings: Thermal analysis | Evaporation | Mathematical models | Hydraulic models | Thermal power | Stratified flow | Fluid flow

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