2 phase LNG expander predictability on scaling up

[giancarlosavini]

I am trying to size a 2 phase LNG expander and I have a question regarding CFD and testing. If we have a CFD model with a certain performance predictability compared with real test data, which are the main components that will change for a bigger size expander and that will affect that predictability (frictions losses etc..) ? could someone give me some suggestions on which will be the main factors that will change predictability for a bigger machine? thanks

 

[giancarlosavini]

with reference to my question above, my understanding is that the following factors will be the most significant ones:

1) variations of Reynolds number
2) non-unidimensional flow
3) variations of mechanical and volumetric efficiency (the last would decrease I think with the increase of internal surface that iteract with the fluid)

I am assuming that predicability can be scaled up with a certain degree of approzimation near the max efficency point, but what about at lower flow?

 

[RotaryG]

giancarlosavini,

Perhaps you should start with ASME PTC 10...