Monitoring of Bubble Formation during the Boiling Process Using Acoustic Emission Signals

The bubble cavitation phenomenon in two phase gas/liquid systems happens in several hydraulic components, for example, valves and centrifugal pumps. This is a common occurrence, leading to a drop in hydraulic performance, reduction of equipment efficiency, possible damage to the structure of pump and valve components. In addition, it causes high vibration and noise and solid surface erosion. This study identifies the feasibility of the use of the Acoustic Emission technology to detect and monitor bubble formation throughout boiling processes. To undertake this task a special purpose test-rig was employed. It was concluded that bubble formation is detectable with AE technology and there is a clear correlation between increasing AE levels and the bubble formation during the boiling process. Keywords— Acoustic Emission (AE), Vibration and Noise, Solid Surface Erosion Bubble Formation, Boiling.

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