Model optimization and mechanism analysis of two-stage ejector considering nonequilibrium condensation

Two-stage ejectors are widely used in multi-effect distillation and refrigeration systems owing to their vacuum and pressurization capabilities. However, most studies on two-stage ejectors are based on the dry-gas hypothesis, which neglects the universal physical phenomenon of condensation. A wet-steam model of two-stage ejectors is established and compared to the dry-gas model in this paper. Simulation results indicate that the proposed wet-steam model more accurately describes the performance and complex flow field characteristics of the two-stage ejector. Moreover, the nonequilibrium condensation mechanism of the fluid within the two-stage ejector under variable conditions is revealed. The results show that as the two-stage main nozzle pressure increases from 300 kPa to 550 kPa, the liquid mass fraction increases, and the droplet nucleation rate of the two stages decreases by 14.17 % and 13.14 %. When the first-stage actuating pressure is increased, the first-stage fluid restricts the expansion state of the second-stage main jet core and weakens the vapor condensation in the region of the shock chain. Furthermore, the experimental results demonstrate that compared with the dry-gas model, the prediction error of entrainment ratio and the secondary flow obtained by the proposed model are reduced by 26.67 % and 43.04 %, respectively.