Flow Rate of a Liquid: Calculating Mass & Pressure

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the flow rate and pressure dynamics between two interconnected cylindrical tanks. The flow rate is defined by the equation Q=1/Rf (Pin - Pout), where Pin and Pout represent the pressures in the first and second tanks, respectively. Participants are attempting to derive a mathematical model to determine the change in height of the fluid in the second tank when the valve is open and to establish the time constant for the system. There is confusion regarding the application of differential equations and the time constant, with some participants expressing frustration over the lack of clarity in the problem statement. Ultimately, the thread concludes with participants unable to resolve their queries, leading to its closure.
topcat123
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(a) FIGURE 2 shows two cylindrical tanks interconnected with a pipe
which has a valve that creates a constant resistance to flow of Rf
when fully open. The height of liquid (of density ρ) in the first tank
is hin and the second tank hout. The cross-sectional area of the first
tank is Ain m^2 and the second tank Aout m^2.

The flow rate of liquid through the valve is given by

Q=1/Rf (Pin - Pout)

where

Q = flow rate in m^3 s^-1
Pin = pressure due to hight of liquid in first tank (Pa)
Pout = pressure due to hight of liquid in second tank (Pa)

so my solution
Mass flow in = Mass flow out + accumulation (the change in mass within the tank)
Mass = density (ρ) x volume (V)
V = cross-sectional area (A) of the tank × the height of liquid (h) in the tank

ρiqvi = ρoqvo+accumulation

There is no gain in overall volume within the system.The Accumulation first tank = 0 - ρoqvo = - Q
The Accumulation second tank = ρiqvi - 0 = QSo the mass flow Q out of the first tank though the valve, mass flow into the second tank, is also equal to Q.
ρoqvo = ρiqvi = Aout dρhout/dt = Ain dρhin/dt

As the density and the change in time are the same, we can cancel them out.
Aout hout = Ain hin

so
hout = Ain hin / Aout

I am not sure about the time constant probable 63.3%

Any help will be apreciated
Thanks
 

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1. What is he question ?
2. Use the template, don't erase it. You would have noticed the problem statement misses a problem.
2. You have a differential equation one moment, the next it is gone... ?
 
Thank you for your reply.

BvU said:
2. Use the template, don't erase it. You would have noticed the problem statement misses a problem.
Sorry for not using the Template I have been informed by the moderator.
BvU said:
1. What is he question ?
Missed that bit off.
Produce a mathematical model of the process to determine the
change in height of fluid in the second tank when the valve is open.
(b) Determine the time constant for the system.

BvU said:
. You have a differential equation one moment, the next it is gone... ?

Aoutδρhout/δt = Ainδρhin/δt
I am not sure after this point. I thought δt and δρ would cancel out, but looking at part (b) I will need δt
 
I've had a bit of a rethink on how to solve this question!

pressure = force/area
pressure (p) = mg/A

mass = density (ρ) × volume (V)
so
p = ρVg/A


The volume
volume = cross-sectional area (A) of the tank × the hight of the liquid
meaning
p = ρAhg/A

Then we can cancel out (A) giving
p = ρhg

using the equation given Q = 1/Rf (pin - pout)

Q = 1/Rf (ρhing - ρhoutg)

RfQ = ρhing - ρhoutg

hout = (ρhing - RfQ) / ρg

I think this is know correct.
I am still struggling with the time constant. As it is a rise in the second tank we can use

1 - e - (t/T)
Giving use a time constant of 63.2%

Any help is appreciated.
 
Hi Topcat

I am stuck in the very same question. Please could I ask how you got on?

Thanks

Jordan
 
Anthony McKenzie said:
Hi Topcat

I am stuck in the very same question. Please could I ask how you got on?

Thanks

Jordan

Hi Anthony,

Did you manage to submit this answer for part a and was it correct?

Cheers,
PF
 
The original person asking/discussing the question has not been online at Pf for a long time. This thread has become meaningless. Thread closed.
 

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