Fluid Mechanics & Hydraulic Machines | Laminar and Turbulent Flow by Pavan | Learn Smarter
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Laminar and Turbulent Flow

This chapter delves into the principles of fluid flow, distinguishing between laminar and turbulent flow, and discussing the implications of head loss in pipe systems. Key equations governing these flows, such as the Hagen–Poiseuille equation and Darcy-Weisbach equation, are explored alongside practical considerations like energy dissipation and fluid dynamics in various scenarios including branching pipes and siphons.

Sections

  • 1

    Laminar (Viscous) Flow

    Laminar flow occurs when fluid moves in parallel layers without disruption, characterized by low Reynolds numbers.

    Learning Practice

  • 1.1

    Plane Poiseuille Flow (Flow Between Parallel Plates)

    This section introduces Plane Poiseuille Flow, which describes steady, incompressible viscous flow between two stationary parallel plates, exhibiting a characteristic parabolic velocity profile.

    Learning Practice

  • 1.2

    Couette Flow

    Couette flow refers to the viscous flow of a fluid between two parallel plates, with one plate stationary and the other moving at a constant velocity, leading to a linear velocity profile.

    Learning Practice

  • 1.3

    Laminar Flow In Circular Pipes (Hagen–poiseuille Equation)

    This section discusses the characteristics and mathematical formulations for laminar flow in circular pipes, primarily defined by the Hagen–Poiseuille equation.

    Learning Practice

  • 1.4

    Loss Of Head And Power Absorbed

    This section discusses how head loss due to viscosity affects energy dissipation and how power loss can be calculated in fluid dynamics.

    Learning Practice

  • 2

    Turbulent Flow

    Turbulent flow is characterized by chaotic fluid motion at high Reynolds numbers, leading to enhanced mixing and irregular velocity fluctuations.

    Learning Practice

  • 2.1

    Reynolds Experiment

    The Reynolds Experiment illustrates the transition from laminar to turbulent flow in fluid dynamics using dyed fluid in a pipe.

    Learning Practice

  • 2.2

    Shear Stress In Turbulent Flow

    This section discusses shear stress in turbulent flow, highlighting the difference between total shear stress in turbulent and laminar flows.

    Learning Practice

  • 3

    Head Losses In Pipe Flow

    This section explores the concept of head losses in pipe flow, focusing on major and minor losses as defined by various equations.

    Learning Practice

  • 3.1

    Darcy-Weisbach Equation (Major Losses)

    The Darcy-Weisbach equation describes the major head losses due to friction in pipe flow, incorporating factors such as pipe length, diameter, and velocity.

    Learning Practice

  • 3.2

    Chezy’s Equation

    Chezy's Equation describes the flow velocity in open channels using hydraulic radius and slope.

    Learning Practice

  • 4

    Minor Losses

    Minor losses in fluid dynamics are energy losses that occur due to fittings, bends, expansions, contractions, and valves in piping systems.

    Learning Practice

  • 5

    Flow Through Siphon Pipes

    This section discusses the mechanics of fluid flow through siphon pipes, focusing on the importance of accounting for head loss to prevent vapor cavitation.

    Learning Practice

  • 6

    Branching Pipes And Equivalent Pipe Concept

    This section discusses how fluid flow is managed in branching pipes and introduces the concept of equivalent pipes to simplify analysis.

    Learning Practice

References

Module V_ Laminar and Turbulent Flow.pdf

Class Notes

Memorization

What we have learnt

  • Laminar flow is characteriz...
  • Turbulent flow is chaotic a...
  • Head loss in pipe systems c...

Final Test

Revision Tests