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Multiphase Flow Analysis Laboratory
Stored: Multiphase Flow Analysis Laboratory
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Multiphase Flow Analysis Laboratory (MFAL) is a specialized facility within the National Energy Technology Laboratory dedicated to conducting laboratory-scale experiments that support the development and validation of multiphase flow computational fluid dynamics models, crucial for advancing energy and environmental technologies.
Operating under NETL’s Multiphase Flow Science program, MFAL uses small-scale test rigs to study gas-solid and other multiphase interactions, providing high-fidelity data for applications in fossil energy systems, fluidized beds, and beyond.
Mission
The MFAL’s mission is to generate precise, well-characterized experimental datasets that bolster NETL’s computational fluid dynamics modeling efforts, focusing on multiphase flow phenomena like gas-solid interactions in energy reactors. By employing advanced diagnostic techniques and in-house designed test rigs, it aims to reduce uncertainties in simulations, supporting the development of cleaner, more efficient energy systems.[1]
Parent organization
The MFAL operates under the National Energy Technology Laboratory, which provides its infrastructure and research framework. The Department of Energy serves as the top organization, guiding MFAL’s efforts within the broader context of national energy innovation.[2]
Legislation
The MFAL was not established by specific legislation but functions as part of NETL’s evolving mission, formalized under DOE’s authority, particularly through the Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management’s initiatives since the early 2000s.
Partners
MFAL collaborates with:
- National Energy Technology Laboratory researchers
- Academic institutions for model validation
- Industry stakeholders in energy technology development[3]
Number of employees
The MFAL does not have a distinct employee count; it draws from NETL’s approximately 1,400 staff across its Pittsburgh, Morgantown, and Albany sites, with researchers and engineers contributing as needed.
Organization structure
MFAL is integrated into NETL’s Multiphase Flow Science program, with key focus areas:
- Particle Characterization Program measures solid-phase properties.
- Multiphase Flow Experiment Program conducts small-scale tests.
- Data Acquisition Group supports experimental diagnostics.
Leader
The MFAL falls under the leadership of NETL’s Director, currently Brian J. Anderson, who oversees the broader MFS program including MFAL activities.[4]
Divisions
The efforts include:
- Experimental Rig Design for custom multiphase flow testing.
- Flow Diagnostics using advanced visualization techniques.
- Data Validation supporting CFD model accuracy.
List of programs
Key MFAL initiatives include:
- Particle Characterization Program for material analysis[5]
- Multiphase Flow Experiments - https://mfix.netl.doe.gov/experiments
- MFiX Validation Support - https://mfix.netl.doe.gov/
Last total enacted budget
MFAL lacks a standalone budget; it operates within NETL’s $1.02 billion FY 2024 allocation, with funding supporting MFS activities unspecified.[6]
Staff
MFAL utilizes NETL’s 1,400 employees, including scientists and engineers skilled in multiphase experimentation, with no separate headcount for the lab.
Funding
Funding is part of NETL’s budget, rising from $900 million (FY 2020) to $1.02 billion (FY 2024), supporting MFAL’s role in advancing multiphase flow research through DOE appropriations.
Services provided
MFAL conducts small-scale multiphase flow experiments, provides particle characterization data, and validates CFD models, supporting NETL’s mission to improve energy system designs.[7]
Regulations overseen
MFAL does not oversee regulations but aligns with DOE’s energy and environmental compliance standards.
Headquarters address
626 Cochran Mill Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15236, USA (NETL Pittsburgh site)
History
The MFAL evolved within NETL’s Multiphase Flow Science program, gaining prominence in the 2000s as computational modeling needs grew, supporting DOE’s focus on fossil energy and carbon management technologies.[8]
External links
References
- ↑ "Multiphase Flow Analysis Laboratory". National Energy Technology Laboratory. https://mfix.netl.doe.gov/mfal.
- ↑ "NETL Overview". U.S. Department of Energy. https://www.energy.gov/fecm/national-energy-technology-laboratory-netl.
- ↑ "MFS Partners". National Energy Technology Laboratory. https://mfix.netl.doe.gov/partners.
- ↑ "NETL Leadership". National Energy Technology Laboratory. https://netl.doe.gov/about/leadership.
- ↑ "MFAL Overview". National Energy Technology Laboratory. https://mfix.netl.doe.gov/mfal.
- ↑ "FY 2024 Budget Request". U.S. Department of Energy. https://www.energy.gov/fecm/articles/fy-2024-budget-request.
- ↑ "MFAL Services". National Energy Technology Laboratory. https://mfix.netl.doe.gov/mfal.
- ↑ "NETL History". National Energy Technology Laboratory. https://netl.doe.gov/history.