Separation of Drops in a Mesh Demister with Vortex Generators

The effect of installing vortex generators between the rows of mesh demister rods on the droplet separation efficiency is considered. The motion of a two-phase medium is modeled using the Eulerian–Lagrangian approach. Air motion is described by the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations, which are closed by the Menter SST turbulence model. Water droplet trajectories are calculated taking into account gravity force and drag force. The problem is solved using the finite volume method. It is found that the studied demister design effectively captures water droplets with a diameter of more than 5 $$\mu$$ m. The vortex generator blades in the shape of an angle change the direction of the two-phase flow, facilitate inertial droplet collection, block the device clearance, and form a groove for the removal of collected water.