Multiphase Flow in the Gap Between Two Rotating Cylinders

Abstract

The research of liquids composed of two (or more) mutually immiscible components is a new emerging area. These liquids represent new materials, which can be utilized as lubricants, liquid seals or as fluid media in biomechanical devices. The investigation of the problem of immiscible liquids started some years ago and soon it was evident that it will have a great application potential. Recently, there has been an effort to use ferromagnetic or magnetorheological fluids in the construction of dumpers or journal bearings. Their advantage is a significant change in dynamic viscosity depending on magnetic induction. In combination with immiscible liquids, qualitatively new liquids can be developed for future technologies. In our case, immiscible fluids increase the dynamic properties of the journal hydrodynamic bearing. The article focuses on the stability of single-phase and subsequently multiphase flow of liquids in the gap between two concentric cylinders, one of which rotates. The aim of the analysis was to study the effect of viscosity and density on the stability/instability of the flow, which is manifested by Taylor vortices. Methods of experimental and mathematical analysis were used for the analysis in order to verify mathematical models of laminar and turbulent flow of immiscible liquids.