CFD simulation and experimental verification for non-Newtonian falling film on inclined plate

In this study extensive unsteady 3-D simulations are carried out to predict velocity and thickness of the non-Newtonian falling film flow on inclined plates which have been measured experimentally. Different concentration carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) solution (1.1, 1.5 and 2%), has been selected as the operating fluid in experimental works. The rheological proper-ties were characterized by PolyVisc Visco Star Series L, surface tension was measured in ambient temperature and a single static contact angle was measured by the goniometry method. The power-law fluid model is iplemented to account for non-Newtonian behavior of the operating fluid. Inclined plates with different inclination angles alpha (0<alpha<pi/2), and assorted surfaces (ceramics, aluminum and glass) were used to study the effect of inclination and contact angle on the vital parameters. Simulation is performed by a version of VOF family of algorithms, CICSAM, which is used to track the air-liquid interface. Surface tension and contact angle effects are also considered in formulations. All numerical implementations are carried out under OpenFOAM 1.3 CFD toolbox frame work. Good agreement between experimental data and CFD simulation results is observed.