Vapor fraction distribution within pipelines and channels

Three-dimensional distribution of vapor volumetric fractions in subcooled boiling is analyzed for circular tubes and rectangular channels. The model is based on three major assumptions: 1) vapor bubble mation is controlled by diffusion due to flow turbulence; 2) the diffusion coefficient and bubble velocity are constant within the channel cross-section as well as the coolant temperature; 3) the vapor bubble generation and condensation rates are calculated according to one-dimensional models. The vapor void distribution is obtained from an analytical solution of the vapor bubble diffusion equation with a simplified approximation of subcooling profile. A method of boundary conditions formulation for the diffusin equation is also presented