UCLA

The experimental data of a simulation for a desalination system utilizing swirl flow phase separation is presented. Previously, the author investigated a desalination system that utilizes flash evaporation and swirl flow phase separation. To better understand the requirements for high separation efficiency, adiabatic experiments with air and water were conducted with a similar test section. In the experiments, air and water are premixed prior to entering the injection tubes and injection passages. The two-phase mixture tangentially injected into the test section experiences centrifugal force. Centrifugal force pushes heavier liquid toward the wall and air being lighter stays in the inner core. A retrieval tube that is placed in the center of the separator tube collects the air from the air core. Superficial air and water velocities were parametrically varied. Air core diameter, air core coverage length, and separation efficiency were measured. It was found that air core coverage length is a significant factor in determining the efficacy of phase separation. The diameter of the injector and the position of the retrieval tube inlet were also determined to be important parameters in the system.