Abstract
A two-phase flow observed in a heat exchanger or nuclear power generation often has a profound effect on undesirable noise or flow characteristics. Void fraction, which refers to the ratio of gas (or liquid) to the total fluid, affects heat transfer coefficient, vibration and so forth. In other words, void fraction is one of most important parameters in two-phase flow since it contributes to comprehend the characteristics of two-phase flow. We developed a two-phase flow visualization system to measure cross-sectional and volumetric void fractions by using quick closing valves and image processing software. With this system, we could observe the plug, slug, and stratified flow patterns of two-phase flow and measure a myriad of void fractions. As a consequence of the experiment, we found that the estimated void fractions were largely coincident with the predictive values by Chisholm model.