Bubble velocity measurement with a recursive cross correlation PIV technique

An image analysis method for measuring bubble velocity fields at high bubble number density is proposed. It is based on computing the cross correlation of bubble images with multiple spatial resolutions, i.e. a recursive cross correlation technique. Comparing several PTV and PIV schemes, it is confirmed that the recursive cross correlation leads to the best measurement results because of the robustness with respect to optical and dynamic characteristics of bubbles. The method is applied successfully to the measurement of bubble motion in bubble plumes accompanying a strong unsteadiness over a wide frequency range. The results reveal that the high frequency fluctuations of bubble velocities grow in the shear layer and near the top surface, while low frequency fluctuations dominate in the middle part of the tank. The characteristic frequency divides the frequency spectrum of the bubble fluctuation intensity into two regions: where there are turbulent behaviors and where there are macroscopic convection patterns in the bubble plumes. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.