CFD Simulation of Two-phase Slug Flow Liquid Carryover in T-junction Corresponds to Various Diameter Ratio

“T-junctions are usually used in distributing two-phase flow in piping system especially in oil and gas industries. However, the nature splitting of liquid-gas phases is a major challenge and is complicated due to its design and operating conditions. Understanding the behavior of two-phase flow phase split through a T-junction is important as it has significant impact on oil and gas transportation pipeline system, process control and the maintenance efficiency of downstream equipment from the junction. This thesis provides a detailed analysis on the effect of diameter ratio on phase separation in T-junction. Hence, a numerical model for simulation of two-phase air-water flow distribution in T-junction to elucidate an in depth understanding on two-phase separation at different operating condition. In order to achieve the objective, the developed model consists of 0.0254m diameter horizontal main arm and vertical branch arm with diameter ratio of 1.0, 0.5 and 0.3. Volume of fluid (VOF) method and K-epsilon turbulent is used in the simulation. The present study identifies that diameter ratio of branch arm to main arm plays an important role in gas-liquid separation in T-junction. At the end of this project, the phenomenon of phase maldistribution when a two-phase mixture passes through a T-junctions is well understood and hence is preferred over conventional separator due to its simple design, cost saving and can act as partial separator to be included in petroleum industry piping network design.”