Development of Compact Multivariable Probe for Two-Phase Detection in PbLi-Argon Columns

TL;DR

This paper presents the development and validation of a compact multivariable electrical conductivity and temperature probe for two-phase flow detection in liquid PbLi-argon columns, addressing challenges in nuclear fusion applications.

Contribution

A novel insulated multivariable probe based on electrical conductivity and temperature measurement for liquid PbLi environments is developed and experimentally validated.

Findings

Probe successfully detects individual bubbles with high temporal resolution.

Probe operates reliably at temperatures up to 400°C and void fractions up to 0.95.

Experimental results include void fraction, bubble frequency, and residence time estimations.

Abstract

Liquid gas two phase flow is a common occurrence in various industrial applications. For nuclear fusion applications with a Li based breeder, existence of two phase flow may lead to critical issues including decreased tritium breeding ratio, generation of hot spots and improper nuclear shielding. Additionally, a very large density ratio of liquid metal to gas mandates relevant experiments towards development and validation of software tools. PbLi has gained immense focus for its various advantages and is utilized in several breeding blanket concepts. In view of above mentioned requirements, a two phase detection tool is imperative for liquid PbLi environment. For liquid metal applications, electrical conductivity based probes are most suitable in terms of ruggedness, fabrication ease and operational simplicity. However, corrosive nature and high operational temperature for PbLi put severe demands on electrical insulation, a foremost requirement for electrical conductivity based schemes. In this study, a multivariable probe based on electrical conductivity and temperature measurement schemes is developed using Al2O3 coating as electrical insulation. Developed probe is validated in PbLi/Ar vertical column with bulk PbLi temperature upto 400 degC and time averaged void fraction upto 0.95 covering flow regimes from dispersed bubbly flow upto in box loss of coolant accident. Developed probe provides high reliability and excellent temporal resolution towards individual bubble detection through electrical conductivity based principle alongwith simultaneous two phase temperature trends. Present paper provides details about sensor probe fabrication, calibration, two phase test facility, void fraction estimations, bubble frequency and bubble residence time estimations alongwith critical observations from preliminary experimental investigations.