CONDENSATION INDUCED WATER HAMMER IN THERMAL POWER PLANTS

Abstract

A direct contact of vapour and subcooled liquid in pipelines or vessels leads to the rapid condensation, the acceleration of the liquid column and its splashing on a closed end or onto other liquid volume, which results in very high pressure peaks that could destroy pipelines. This phenomenon is known as the condensation induced water hammer (CIWH). A numerical model for the simulation and analysis of the CIWH in the feedwater system of a thermal power plant is developed. The modelling is based on the two-phase flow model, the tracking of the steam-water interface and the modelling of the direct condensation of steam on subcooled water. Obtained numerical results are compared with available experimental data. The safety system that prevents the occurrence of the CIWH at the feedwater system of the thermal power plant is presented.