Prediction of the initiation of slugs with linear stability theory

This paper explores the application of linear stability theory to explain the onset of slugging. It is shown that the inviscid Kelvin-Helmholtz theory correctly predicts stability of a stratified flow only for very large liquid viscosities. In general, however, inviscid theory is in error because it ignores the destabilizing effect of liquid inertia. Good agreement is noted between the linear stability analysis and observations of the initiation of slugs in 2.54- and 9.53-cm horizontal pipes at superficial gas velocities less than 3.3 m/s.