Bubble Analogy and Stabilization of Core-Annular Flow

A theory for the stabilization of annular liquid-liquid flow (i.e., core-annular flow) in a horizontal pipe is proposed. Based upon the analysis of the momentum conservation equation in the cross section of the flow, including the effects of peripheral flow in the annulus and interfacial tension, an equation is obtained which describes the interface shape. Results for the height-to-width aspect ratio of the core are compared with laboratory measurements done by the author for a heavy oil-water core-annular flow. A criterion for stabilization of this interesting flow pattern is proposed.