Modeling of Droplet Deformation and Breakup

Abstract

The present paper addresses the macroscopic atomization characteristics of liquid-fuel droplets when subjected to the influence of a high velocity air crossflow. A breakup model is conceived by using a set of correlations available in the literature with the purpose of replicating such phenomena. The computational results are compared against experimental data to validate the model. The results show a reasonable agreement between measurements and predictions in both the qualitative and quantitative outcomes evaluated, which sustain the mathematical formulation adopted. However, further improvements may be aspired to, given the fact that there is a lack of experimental data available when shearing effects come into play in the mechanisms occurring during the atomization process. On the other hand, the use of two fuels (diesel and biodiesel) allowed to perception of a relevant impact of the liquid properties (particularly surface tension and viscosity) in the characteristics of the fragments resulting from the breakup event.