Numerical simulation of bubble growth on and departure from the heated surface by an improved lattice Boltzmann model

Based on die plume change model developed by lattice Boltzmann method (LBM), an improved source term which is responsible for phase change is proposed. The computation of the latent heat is taken into consideration to avoid the error and instability caused by the equation of state (EOS). Periodic bubble growth and departure from a heated surface during the boiling process is investigated based on the newly developed lattice Boltzmann model. Effects of gravity, contact angel and superheat on bubble departure diameter and release period under constant wall temperature conditions are illustrated. The three-phase contact line movements of the vapor bubble and the wall heat flux are also described. The results reflect the dynamic features and the influencing mechanism of bubble in boiling period, and this research lays the foundation of further studies on thermal-hydraulics and safety analysis by LBM.