Characterization of multiphase pressure-change phenomena, as observed across a bifurcating horizontal 90{degree} Tee-junction

This paper reports on the behavior of multiphase flow mixtures propagating in clear 0.0260m i.d. perspex piping, as they encounter and transverse a horizontal 90{degree} Tee-junction. Both two-phase air-water and three-phase air-water-oil flows were investigated. Flow regime patterns were identified using visual and pressure fluctuation techniques. Pressure drop per unit length, pressure fluctuation and liquid holdup were determined for the upstream and both the downstream arms. The experimental data was used to calculate the pre- and post-bifurcation momentum changes, and from these values it was possible to calculate the pressure change coefficient(s) for the various flow regimes using Bernoulli-modified separated and homogeneous flow models. As a consequence of bifurcation pressure difference, holdup and operating flow regimes being intrinsically linked, proposed optimized operating conditions are investigated.