Zhao, Y.Lao, LiyunYeung, H.2016-06-082016-06-082015-06-18Y. Zhao, L. Lao, H. Yeung, Investigation and prediction of slug flow characteristics in highly viscous liquid and gas flows in horizontal pipes, Chemical Engineering Research and Design, Volume 102, October 2015, pp124-1370263-8762http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cherd.2015.06.002http://dspace.lib.cranfield.ac.uk/handle/1826/9941Slug flow characteristics in highly viscous liquid and gas flow are studied experimentally in a horizontal pipe with 0.074 m ID and 17 m length. Results of flow regime map, liquid holdup and pressure gradient are discussed and liquid viscosity effects are investigated. Applicable correlations which are developed to predict liquid holdup in slug body for low viscosity flow are assessed with high viscosity liquids. Furthermore, a mechanistic model is developed for predicting the characteristics of slug flows of highly viscous liquid in horizontal pipes. A control volume is drawn around the slug body and slug film in a slug unit. Momentum equations with a momentum source term representing the significant momentum exchange between film zone and slug body are applied. Liquid viscosity effects are considered in closure relations. The mechanistic model is validated by comparing available pressure gradient and mean slug liquid holdup data produced in the present study and those obtained from literature, showing satisfactory capabilities over a large range of liquid viscosity.enAttribution-Non-Commercial-No Derivatives 3.0 Unported (CC BY-NC-ND 3.0). You are free to: Share — copy and redistribute the material in any medium or format. The licensor cannot revoke these freedoms as long as you follow the license terms. Under the following terms: Attribution — You must give appropriate credit, provide a link to the license, and indicate if changes were made. You may do so in any reasonable manner, but not in any way that suggests the licensor endorses you or your use. Information: Non-Commercial — You may not use the material for commercial purposes. No Derivatives — If you remix, transform, or build upon the material, you may not distribute the modified material. No additional restrictions — You may not apply legal terms or technological measures that legally restrict others from doing anything the license permits.Gas-liquid flowHigh viscositySlug flowMechanistic modelHorizontal pipeArticle