Depends. Agitator or Spin cycle? Whites, Permanent Press, or Delicates?fahraynk said:What would the reynolds number be for a closed pipe spinning like a washing machine? would the characteristic length be the diameter... if so why. Everything I have read is so vauge on this. How can I determine it for strange situations?
Can I skip it and figure out if flow is laminar or turbulent some other way?
Well, sort of like a couette flow with a outer and inner cylinder but just remove the inner cylinder...boneh3ad said:The diameter would be one length scale you could pick. It really depends on the physics you hope to study, though. Choosing the length scale for calculating the Reynolds number is all about choosing one that is appropriate to the physics you are trying to describe.
The Reynolds number of a washing machine like object is a dimensionless number that represents the ratio of inertial forces to viscous forces in the fluid flow inside the machine. It is typically calculated using the object's size, speed, and fluid properties.
The Reynolds number is important for a washing machine because it helps predict the type of fluid flow inside the machine. This is crucial for determining the efficiency and performance of the machine, as well as potential issues such as turbulence or cavitation.
A high Reynolds number for a washing machine like object would typically be above 4000. This indicates that the fluid flow inside the machine is turbulent, which can lead to improved mixing and cleaning of clothes. However, extremely high Reynolds numbers can also cause issues such as noise and energy loss.
The Reynolds number can affect the cleaning ability of a washing machine by influencing the fluid flow patterns. A higher Reynolds number can result in more turbulent flow, which can help remove dirt and stains more effectively. However, if the Reynolds number is too high, it can also cause damage to delicate fabrics.
Yes, the Reynolds number of a washing machine can be changed by adjusting the size, speed, or fluid properties. For example, using a smaller washing machine or reducing the spin speed can result in a lower Reynolds number and smoother fluid flow. However, changing these parameters may also affect the cleaning ability and efficiency of the machine.