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A Drift-Flux Model of Two-Phase Flow for RETRAN

E. D. Hughes, M. P. Paulsen, L. J. Agee

Nuclear Technology / Volume 54 / Number 3 / September 1981 / Pages 410-421

First International Retran Meeting / Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow / dx.doi.org/10.13182/NT81-A32787

A drift-flux model of two-phase flow has been incorporated into the RETRAN computer program. The drift-flux equations allow more accurate prediction of the void fraction than the homogeneous mixture model equations that form the basic RETRAN two-phase flow model. In addition, the drift-flux model is more physically based than empirical correlations of void fraction. Comparisons of model predictions with experimental data show good agreement for both subcooled and saturated boiling of water.