Exact solution of two phase stratified flow through the pipes for non-Newtonian Herschel–Bulkley fluids

Steady state, laminar and fully developed stratified two phase flow including two immiscible fluids through the pipe has been studied analytically. One of the phases is Newtonian and the other one is non-Newtonian which obeys the Herschel–Bulkley fluid model. The dimensionless velocity distribution, Martinelli correction factor and non-Newtonian liquid holdup have been reported. The effect of interface curvature and wide range of viscosity ratio of two phases on flow behavior has been investigated. The results illustrate that the non-Newtonian rheological properties have significant effects on dimensionless velocity and consequently on two phase flow pressure drop specially for larger viscosity ratio.