Logarithmic profile and derivations - 4.2.2 | 21. Hydraulic Engineering | Hydraulic Engineering - Vol 1
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Smooth Pipe Velocity Profiles

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Teacher
Teacher

Today, we'll continue exploring turbulent flow, starting with the velocity profile in smooth pipes. Can anyone tell me what we mean by a 'smooth pipe'?

Student 1
Student 1

Isn't it a pipe with a very fine surface texture that minimizes resistance?

Teacher
Teacher

Exactly! In smooth pipes, flow velocity can be described using the logarithmic profile. The equation we refer to is directly related to the Reynolds number, which helps determine whether the flow is laminar or turbulent.

Student 2
Student 2

What's the main equation we’re focusing on?

Teacher
Teacher

We have u = (u_star / Kappa) * ln(y_prime), where u is the velocity at a distance y_prime from the wall. Remember, Kappa is approximately 0.4 for turbulent flow.

Student 3
Student 3

What happens when y is equal to zero in this equation?

Teacher
Teacher

Good question! If y is zero, the equation suggests that velocity becomes infinitely negative, which shows us that we cannot approach the wall directly. Instead, we introduce a finite distance where we measure `y`. Now, can anyone tell me the significance of C in our equation?

Student 4
Student 4

Is it the constant that helps to adjust values in our logarithmic profile?

Teacher
Teacher

Precisely! C adjusts our logarithmic equation to fit the conditions. Understanding this adjustment is vital.

Velocity Distribution for Rough Pipes

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Teacher
Teacher

Moving on, let's discuss rough pipes. How do you think the turbulent flow profile changes when we consider a rough surface?

Student 1
Student 1

I assume the roughness would create more turbulence, changing the velocities?

Teacher
Teacher

Exactly! Nikuradse’s experiments tell us that we can express the velocity distribution in a similar logarithmic form, but we must use different parameters. Who remembers the roughness height in this context?

Student 2
Student 2

Is it represented as `k` for roughness?

Teacher
Teacher

Yes, `k` represents the average height of roughness. The equation derived then for rough pipes generally looks similar but is adjusted due to this `k` factor.

Student 3
Student 3

How does Nikuradse's experiment influence our calculations?

Teacher
Teacher

His work allows us to determine the equivalent roughness from velocity profiles, which is crucial for practical engineering applications. If roughness increases, the flow characteristics also change—leading to higher energy losses.

Problem Solving with Flow Equations

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Teacher
Teacher

Now let’s solve a problem! Given a pipe with a diameter of 10 centimeters, if the velocity at 4 centimeters from the wall is 40% greater than at 1 centimeter, how can we find the average height of roughness?

Student 4
Student 4

We should use the equations for both positions and set them up based on their velocities.

Teacher
Teacher

Exactly! Start by expressing the velocities based on our established equations. What do we derive?

Student 1
Student 1

We can establish a relationship using u values at the two distances. Wouldn’t we also consider `k` for roughness?

Teacher
Teacher

Yes, and after substituting our values, set the equations equal, simplifying until we can isolate `k`. This method provides a robust way to find roughness height.

Student 2
Student 2

I see! So, manipulating logarithmic expressions is key to solving for `k`.

Teacher
Teacher

Absolutely! Just a reminder, practice this more for better retention, and make sure to refer back to the equations often. Now, let’s summarize today's learnings.

Student 3
Student 3

Can you recap the importance of these equations?

Teacher
Teacher

Sure! The logarithmic equations provide essential insights into the flow characteristics in both smooth and rough pipes, and understanding how to manipulate them is key in engineering applications.

Introduction & Overview

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Quick Overview

This section covers the derivation of the velocity distributions for turbulent flow in both smooth and rough pipes, focusing on the logarithmic velocity profile.

Standard

In this section, we explore logarithmic velocity profiles and their derivations for turbulent flow in smooth pipes and the adjustments necessary for rough pipes. Key equations are introduced, alongside insights from Nikuradse’s experiments and practical problem-solving involving roughness height determination.

Detailed

Logarithmic Profile and Derivations

This section delves into the fundamental concepts of turbulent flow in pipes, particularly focusing on logarithmic velocity profiles. We begin with the analysis of smooth pipes, utilizing certain equations derived from previously established fundamentals. The discussion emphasizes the importance of identifying the velocity at different distances from the wall and adjusting the boundaries to establish a consistent logarithmic model that accommodates both smooth and rough surfaces. The utilization of Nikuradse's experiments serves to adjust equations for practical applications in determining the average hydraulic roughness from velocity measurements. A sample problem is discussed to illustrate the derivation of roughness height, reinforcing the importance of understanding the relationship between flow characteristics and pipe surface conditions.

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Understanding Velocity at the Wall

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From equation 18, the velocity at the wall (u at y=0) is -∞. For a distance far away from the wall, u is positive.

Detailed Explanation

According to equation 18, the velocity at the wall is considered to approach negative infinity when we evaluate it at a distance of zero from the wall (i.e., at y = 0). However, as we move further from the wall, the velocity u becomes positive at a specified distance from the wall, denoted as y prime. This implies that the fluid flow behavior changes closer to the surface compared to the flow further away.

Examples & Analogies

Imagine a riverbank: right at the edge where the water is calm, the flow is minimal or negative due to obstruction. But as you move slightly away from the bank, the water flows freely and quickly, illustrating the difference in velocity near to and away from the wall.

The Logarithmic Profile Equation

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At distance y prime, C will be -u star / Kappa ln(y prime), assuming u approaches 0 at y prime.

Detailed Explanation

In developing the logarithmic velocity profile, we establish that the constant C can be expressed in terms of known variables. By assuming that the velocity u reaches zero at a finite distance y prime from the wall, we derive the equation that illustrates the velocity profile in turbulent flow. The relationship between these variables is crucial for understanding how flow behaves near solid boundaries.

Examples & Analogies

Think of the side of a swimming pool. If you are close to the edge, your movement (the flow) is slowed due to the pool wall. As you push further into the pool (y prime), the water flows freely. The derived equation helps us quantify that change in flow behavior, akin to adjustments in your speed as you swim further from the wall.

Conversion to Common Logarithm

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Equation number 22 can be expressed in terms of common logarithm after substituting ln with log base 10.

Detailed Explanation

To simplify the expression and make it more usable for practical calculations, we convert the natural logarithmic terms into terms that use the common logarithm (base 10). This conversion allows engineers and scientists to easily apply and interpret the results in real-world scenarios where they often work with base 10 logarithms.

Examples & Analogies

Consider a math class where you usually work with fractions, and suddenly, the teacher asks you to convert everything into decimals for easier calculations. Similarly, converting to common logarithms makes our equations more accessible and user-friendly.

Nikuradse's Experiment and Viscous Sublayer Thickness

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According to Nikuradse’s experiment, y prime is delta prime, the thickness of the laminar sublayer, defined as 11.6 nu / u star.

Detailed Explanation

Nikuradse's experiments provided important insights into the thickness of the laminar sublayer, which is the layer of fluid in contact with the surface where viscous effects are most prevalent. By establishing a relationship for y prime as delta prime, we can connect theoretical equations with practical measurements obtained from experiments, thereby enhancing the accuracy of our models.

Examples & Analogies

Imagine a cake: the very top layer is smooth and rich because it is untouched, akin to the laminar layer. Underneath, the structure may be different (the turbulent layer) that adds complexity. Knowing how thick that smooth layer is helps in designing better baking techniques, just as understanding the laminar layer thickness helps in designing better fluid flows.

Turbulent Velocity Distribution

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Equation number 23 represents the velocity distribution for turbulent flow in a smooth pipe without irregularities.

Detailed Explanation

Equation number 23 outlines the mathematical model for predicting how fluid velocity varies across the cross-section of a smooth pipe. This equation is essential for both theoretical studies and practical applications, allowing engineers to understand and predict the behavior of fluids in various scenarios, including pipelines, water systems, and environmental flows.

Examples & Analogies

Picture the way water flows from a garden hose. At first, it seems to sprout straight out, but as it travels further, the speed alters based on the proximity of the hose tip and the ground. Understanding these velocity patterns lets us strategically design our irrigation systems.

Velocity Distribution in Rough Pipes

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Nikuradse obtained a value for y prime as k/30 for rough pipes, leading to a different velocity distribution equation.

Detailed Explanation

The difference between smooth and rough pipes is crucial for determining fluid behavior. For rough pipes, Nikuradse's findings led to a different perspective on how the boundaries affect flow velocity by introducing k as a new variable. The relationship showcases how surface texture can significantly influence the overall flow dynamics within the pipe.

Examples & Analogies

Think of a bumpy road compared to a smooth highway. The bumps (k) affect how fast your vehicle (fluid) can travel over it. Understanding how this roughness changes speed helps us design better road and fluid systems, making transportation and fluid management more efficient.

Definitions & Key Concepts

Learn essential terms and foundational ideas that form the basis of the topic.

Key Concepts

  • Velocity Profile: Refers to how flow speed varies at different points from the wall in a pipe.

  • Logarithmic Distribution: A mathematical profile used to express how velocity varies in turbulent flow.

  • Rough Pipe Dynamics: The impact of surface roughness on turbulent flow and energy loss.

Examples & Real-Life Applications

See how the concepts apply in real-world scenarios to understand their practical implications.

Examples

  • When calculating flow in smooth pipes, using a velocity profile helps engineers determine the expected speed at various distances from the wall.

  • The determination of roughness height from measurements is crucial in applications like hydraulics and civil engineering.

Memory Aids

Use mnemonics, acronyms, or visual cues to help remember key information more easily.

🎵 Rhymes Time

  • Flow goes fast, smooth like a charm; rough makes it slow, watch for the harm.

📖 Fascinating Stories

  • Imagine a river flowing effortlessly over a smooth stone, but when it encounters a rocky path, it stumbles and slows down—this describes our flow concepts.

🧠 Other Memory Gems

  • Rough pipes make the flow 'Rok' (roughness, energy loss, chaos) whereas smooth pipes 'Roc' (regulate, orderly, control).

🎯 Super Acronyms

Remember 'VLR' for Velocity Logarithmic Relation, it's key for understanding how velocity profiles are shaped.

Flash Cards

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Glossary of Terms

Review the Definitions for terms.

  • Term: Logarithmic Profile

    Definition:

    A mathematical expression used to describe velocity distribution in turbulent flow, characterized by a logarithmic relationship.

  • Term: Reynolds Number

    Definition:

    A dimensionless number that characterizes the flow regime; determines whether flow is laminar or turbulent.

  • Term: Nikuradse's Experiments

    Definition:

    Empirical studies conducted to understand turbulent flow characteristics in pipes and the effect of roughness.

  • Term: Turbulent Flow

    Definition:

    A form of fluid flow where the motion is chaotic, characterized by eddies and vortices.

  • Term: Roughness Height (k)

    Definition:

    A measure representing the average height of surface irregularities in a pipe that influences flow characteristics.