Numerical calculation of relative phase permeabilities for two-phase flow in the channel

Two-phase flow through a channel is considered for different viscosity ratios, surface tension (r) and types of displacement (drainage or imbibition). The simulation is based on the numerical solution of the incompressible Navier-Stokes equations. Numerical calculation results of the relative phase permeability are compared for different mesh sizes. For calculation of relative phase permeability there is a problem with calculation of the average pressure gradient. Following approaches for calculation of average pressure gradient had been chosen: velocity weighted average of the pressure gradient and velocity weighted average of the viscous force. The approach of velocity weighted average of the viscous force gives more accurate results than the approach of velocity weighted average of the pressure gradient. Fingering instability was observed depending on the viscosity ratio and surface tension. All numerical calculations are performed using OpenFOAM finite volume library. (C) 2019 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. Selection and peer-review under responsibility of the scientific committee of the 7th International Conference on Nanomaterials and Advanced Energy Storage Systems.