Understanding the dynamics of multi-phase flows has been a challenge in the fields of nonlinear dynamics and fluid mechanics. This chapter reviews our work on two-phase flow dynamics in combination with complex network theory. We systematically carried out gas-water/oil-water two-phase flow experiments for measuring the time series of flow signals which is studied in terms of the mapping from time series to complex networks. Three network mapping methods were proposed for the analysis and identification of flow patterns, i.e. Flow Pattern Complex Network (FPCN), Fluid Dynamic Complex Network (FDCN) and Fluid Structure Complex Network (FSCN). Through detecting the community structure of FPCN based on K-means clustering, distinct flow patterns can be successfully distinguished and identified. A number of FDCN’s under different flow conditions were constructed in order to reveal the dynamical characteristics of two-phase flows. The FDCNs exhibit universal power-law degree distributions. The power-law exponent and the network information entropy are sensitive to the transition among different flow patterns, which can be used to characterize nonlinear dynamics of the two-phase flow. FSCNs were constructed in the phase space through a general approach that we introduced. The statistical properties of FSCN can provide quantitative insight into the fluid structure of two-phase flow. These interesting and significant findings suggest that complex networks can be a potentially powerful tool for uncovering the nonlinear dynamics of two-phase flows.

Fundamentals of Horizontal Wellbore Cleanout delivers the latest methods regarding effective sand cleanout tools in horizontal wellbores. Providing the most relevant information, including sand bed formation, sand settling velocity, friction and hydraulics, this book covers the most effective tools and emerging technologies. Sections discuss the settling characteristics of sand and the effects of particle shape and size on drag coefficients, along with models for drag coefficients using experimental data. Numerical studies on sand transport efficiency as well as prediction models of sand concentration and an evaluation of friction between pipe and sand bed are also included. Illustrative case studies include cleanout with varying nozzle assemblies leading to optimum design on operation procedures, bottomhole assembly, and other lessons learned from known field experience. Rounding out with future research on cost-saving strategies including CO2 used as a washing fluid in water-sensitive formations, Fundamentals of Horizontal Wellbore Cleanout gives today’s petroleum and drilling engineers alternative methods to hole cleaning in today’s horizontal wells. Presents flowcharts, methods and field studies to help readers develop cost-saving strategies and optimal performance Helps users build their own models using the experimental data provided Guides readers on how to build research and operation capabilities by providing extensive literature reviews and references

The analysis of recurrences in dynamical systems by using recurrence plots and their quantification is still an emerging field. Over the past decades recurrence plots have proven to be valuable data visualization and analysis tools in the theoretical study of complex, time-varying dynamical systems as well as in various applications in biology, neuroscience, kinesiology, psychology, physiology, engineering, physics, geosciences, linguistics, finance, economics, and other disciplines. This multi-authored book intends to comprehensively introduce and showcase recent advances as well as established best practices concerning both theoretical and practical aspects of recurrence plot based analysis. Edited and authored by leading researcher in the field, the various chapters address an interdisciplinary readership, ranging from theoretical physicists to application-oriented scientists in all data-providing disciplines.

This book introduces readers to gas flows and heat transfer in pebble bed reactor cores. It addresses fundamental issues regarding experimental and modeling methods for complex multiphase systems, as well as relevant applications and recent research advances. The numerical methods and experimental measurements/techniques used to solve pebble flows, as well as the content on radiation modeling for high-temperature pebble beds, will be of particular interest. This book is intended for a broad readership, including researchers and practitioners, and is sure to become a key reference resource for students and professionals alike.

This book discusses various aspects of percolation mechanics. It starts with the driving forces and driving modes and then examines in detail the steady state percolation of single-phase incompressible fluids, percolation law of natural gas and percolation of non-Newtonian fluids. Progressing from simple to complex concepts, it also analyzes Darcy’s law, providing a basis for the study of reservoir engineering, oil recovery engineering and reservoir numerical simulation. It serves as a textbook for undergraduate students majoring in petroleum engineering, petroleum geology and groundwater engineering, and offers a valuable reference guide for graduate students, researchers and technical engineers engaged in oil and gas exploration and development.

This book provides design engineers using gas-liquid two-phase flow in different industrial applications the necessary fundamental understanding of the two-phase flow variables. Two-phase flow literature reports a plethora of correlations for determination of flow patterns, void fraction, two- phase pressure drop and non-boiling heat transfer correlations. However, the validity of a majority of these correlations is restricted over a narrow range of two -phase flow conditions. Consequently, it is quite a challenging task for the end user to select an appropriate correlation/model for the type of two-phase flow under consideration. Selection of a correct correlation also requires some fundamental understanding of the two-phase flow physics and the underlying principles/assumptions/limitations associated with these correlations. Thus, it is of significant interest for a design engineer to have knowledge of the flow patterns and their transitions and their influence on two-phase flow variables. To address some of these issues and facilitate selection of appropriate two-phase flow models, this volume presents a succinct review of the flow patterns, void fraction, pressure drop and non-boiling heat transfer phenomenon and recommend some of the well scrutinized modeling techniques.