Session: 7.4.2 - Fluid-Solid Flows II

Paper Number: 158430

158430 - Study of Hydrosol Dynamics and Deposition in Turbulent Channel Flow 

Abstract: 

The dispersion and deposition of asphaltene particles during the process of crude oil production remains a significant challenge in the petroleum industry due to the complex interplay of various physical phenomena. Asphaltene deposition is a major issue because it can cause operational disruptions such as pipeline blockages, reduced production efficiency, and increased maintenance costs. These challenges emphasize the need to understand the underlying mechanisms governing particle behavior which can lead to the development of more effective strategies to mitigate deposition and improve operational efficiency.

To study particle transport and deposition, point particle – direct numerical simulations (PP–DNS) are commonly used. These simulations typically simplify the problem by focusing on the dominant forces affecting particle dynamics, such as drag force, lift force, and gravitational effects. However, recent research indicates that secondary forces, while smaller in magnitude, can have significant impacts on particle behavior, especially near wall regions where the deposition occurs. In other words, such forces such as Basset history force or virtual mass force may influence the particle concentration profile and consequently deposition rates.

The Basset History force is mostly neglected in aerosol studies due to its small magnitude as well as its complexity and difficulty to model in the computations, however it can be more relevant for hydrosols, where particle to fluid density ratio is in order of unity. Similarly, the virtual mass force and the pressure gradient force can also play significant roles in particle transport. Therefore, these forces, when combined, can modify particle behavior and its deposition dynamics in ways that are not yet fully captured by existing models focused solely on drag and gravity.

In this study, we explore the effects of these secondary forces on the dispersion and deposition of particles for both hydrosols and aerosols using PP–DNS. The simulations are conducted at a friction Reynolds number of Re_τ=180 with the assumption of a dilute system, where particle effects on the carrier phase are negligible. Our investigation includes a detailed comparison of deposition velocity and concentration profiles between hydrosols, such as asphaltene particles, and aerosols. By investigating these dynamics, we aim to identify the fundamental mechanism driving deposition in turbulent flows.

Furthermore, this work highlights the critical need to incorporate the forces into predictive models for better accuracy. Understanding the differences between hydrosol and aerosol deposition dynamics is vital for addressing operational challenges in the petroleum industry, reducing inefficiencies, and minimizing the risks associated with asphaltene deposition.

Presenting Author: Sanaz Abbasi School of Science and Engineering, University of Missouri-Kansas City

Presenting Author Biography: