Fluid mechanics: Rigid column theory

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the rigid column theory in fluid mechanics, specifically focusing on the equation H = 4f.le.vo^2/2d.g and the expression for delta H as presented in a textbook. Participants seek clarification on the derivation and implications of these equations, exploring both theoretical and empirical aspects.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the equation H = 4f.le.vo^2/2d.g, suggesting it may be empirical rather than derived from first principles.
  • Another participant references the relationship between pressure change and head loss, introducing the Darcy-Weisbach equation and noting the use of the Fanning friction factor.
  • A different participant discusses the implications of a valve closing and how it affects the height measurements in a piezometer, questioning the absence of friction in the analysis.
  • Some participants note that the textbook states the fluid is frictionless, raising questions about the relevance of the friction factor f in this context.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the interpretation of the equations or the implications of friction in the fluid system. Multiple competing views and uncertainties remain regarding the nature of the fluid and the derivation of the equations.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions regarding the definitions of variables and the conditions under which the equations apply, particularly concerning the frictionless nature of the fluid and the empirical basis of the equations.

axe34
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Hello

Please see attached page from a textbook. Can someone explain why H = 4f.le.vo^2/2d.g and why delta H is given by the expression in the book? Note that the figure it mentions is on the top of the page. I have tried for days here.

Thanks
 

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I am not familiar with rigid column theory and you didn't exactly provide a lot of information to try to decipher it, but this equation looks like it is rather empirical, so it probably isn't derived from first principles. More likely is that it is dimensionally consistent and includes all the factors upon which the answer should depend, so it works provided you know the value of ##\ell_e##.
 
You have ##\Delta p = \rho g \Delta H## and Darcy - Weisbach ## {\Delta p\over l} = f_D {\rho\over 2} {v2\over d} ##
Fuirthermore ## f_d = 4 f##, the Fanning friction factor which seems to be the one your book uses.
They combine to $$
\Delta H = 4f {l v^2\over 2dg}
$$for the head loss in the pipe
 
I hope you are able to see the book page ok on the attachment.

When the valve closes, it seems to imply that a piezometer at the valve with show height H + ΔH

Thus, if we define positive direction to the right,

∑forces on the fluid in horizontal pipe = m.a

(ρgH + ρ0) - (ρg(H+ΔH) + ρ0) = ρAL. dv/dt where: ρAL is the mass of fluid in the horizontal pipe and ρ0 is atmospheric pressure (A is pipe cross section)

This gives ΔH = - L/g dv/dt which implies that then delta H is positive, then there will be a deceleration of flow. Why has there not been any friction mentioned here?
 
Just read the passage again, it says the fluid is frictionless
 
axe34 said:
Just read the passage again, it says the fluid is frictionless
In that case I wonder what they mean with ##f##. But then again, that's in a subsequent paragraph ...
 

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