Development of the drag model for bubble columns across homogeneous and heterogeneous flow regimes by integrating direct numerical simulation with experimental data

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Abstract
The accuracy of the drag model is critical for achieving reliable simulations of bubble column hydrodynamics. This study develops a drag model for bubble columns with comprehensive applicability across homogeneous and heterogeneous flow regimes by integrating direct numerical simulation with experimental data. Systematic direct numerical simulation of gas-liquid flows at various inlet velocities informs the original model's development. The Reynolds number is incorporated in addition to the gas holdup to account for the different flow regimes, which distinguishes it from traditional models that rely solely on gas holdup. Implemented within a two-fluid model framework, the proposed drag model for bubble swarms is validated through posterior analysis. Results demonstrate its unique capability to accurately capture bubble swarm drag characteristics across all regimes, from homogeneous to heterogeneous.