Three-dimensional simulation of gas flow for predicting the pressure and velocity profiles inside a gas centrifuge machine using the DSMC method.

In this article, using the direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) method, the gas flow inside the gas centrifuge was modeled simultaneously in the Knudsen and hydrodynamic zones. So that the three-dimensional (3D) simulation of gas centrifuge in the presence of all drivers inside the rotor, including feed, scoop, baffle, etc. was done. The results showed that, the feed is an important factor in creating and intensifying the axial flow formed in the rotor axis, and choke phenomenon occurs at the point of its entry into the rotor. It was further revealed that the amount of separation power obtained from the simulation (using the DSMC method) and the experimental has a difference of 4.3%, showing the agreement of the 3D simulations with reality. • Scoop is responsible for extracting flow and driving axial flow. • Pressure, temperature and molecules collision velocity with scoop inlet affect the drag force in this area. • Due to high rotor wall velocity, supersonic flow hits the scoop, and shock phenomenon occurs. • Feed is an important factor in creation and intensification of axial flow. • The difference in separation power obtained from simulation and experimental is acceptable (4.3%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]