One dimensional effervescence modeling of an extraterrestrial submarine in the Saturn Titan Seas. (June 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hartwig, Jason; Meyerhofer, Peter; Balasubramaniam, R.; Mercado, Mariano; Lorenz, Ralph; Walsh, Justin; Oleson, Steve
• Is Part Of: Planetary and space science. Volume 170(2019)
• Page Start: 1
• Page End: 15
• Publication Date: 2019-06
• Subjects: Titan -- Submarine -- Effervescence -- Nitrogen/methane/ethane -- Bubble incipience -- Bubble growth; Space sciences -- Periodicals; Atmosphere, Upper -- Periodicals; Sciences spatiales -- Périodiques; Haute atmosphère -- Périodiques; 523
• DOI: 10.1016/j.pss.2019.04.002
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0032-0633

Abstract

Abstract: An extraterrestrial submarine has been proposed to explore Saturn's moon Titan. A major design concern is the effect of effervescence on submarine operation. Because nitrogen gas has a relatively high solubility in the liquid ethane and methane seas, waste heat generated by the submarine power system may cause dissolved nitrogen gas to come out of solution. In a non-moving case, bubbles that form may interfere with science measurements. In a moving case, bubbles that form along the body may coalesce at the aft end of the craft and cause cavitation in the propellers. This paper presents a concise effervescence model as a function of the waste heat, location of submarine within the seas (liquid temperature and pressure), and contact angle between bubbles and submarine skin. Based on results, effervescence is a strong function of heat flux into the liquid as well as contact angle, possibly requiring limits on the power system or a redesign of the thermal management system. The current submarine operating waste heat flux is 370 W/m 2, which when compared to recent bubble incipience data suggests a small margin in safety factor, however. Highlights: A submarine has been proposed for Saturn's moon Titan. Nitrogen dissolution will impact operation of any submersible. Bubble incipience, growth, and development models are proposed. Contact angle and heat flux are the two primary driving parameters for effervescence. Limits on the power system or redesign of the current thermal management system may be required.