Stability of supercritical fluid flow in a single-channel natural-convection loop

In this paper, supercritical flow stability in a single-channel, natural-convection loop is examined using a non-linear numerical code. A theoretical stability criterion is also developed to verify the numerical prediction. Good agreement between the numerical and analytical results was obtained. The mode of instability identified is purported to be different from the traditional instabilities associated with two-phase flow. The understanding derived is discussed.