Three-dimensional modeling of complex swirling flows in champagne glasses: CFD and flow visualization

The aim of the present study is to propose a reliable tool based on the CFD method which aims to predict the bubble-induced flow patterns in a champagne glass whatever its glass shape or bubbling conditions. This paper presents the various steps of the analysis which is carried out using a CFD commercial code with a 3D multiphase model based on the Eulerian–Lagrangian approach. The VOF multiphase model, coupled with a discrete phase (simulating the presence of ascending bubbles), was used to model the behavior of the liquid phase (the wine), the gaseous phase, and the interface between them. Subroutines were implemented in the 3D CFD code allowing to reproduce the process of bubble ascent dynamics. For this study aimed at qualitatively validating the numerical model, only one glass geometry is studied, and the CFD results are compared with experimental data obtained both by laser tomography and 2D PIV. Numerical simulations allowed us to test some assumptions that would be difficult to corroborate by experimental methods. Finally, the complex topological information deduced from CFD simulations turned out satisfactory and offered a realistic approach of the flow. These facts represent proofs of the predictive potential of the developed numerical tool.