Fluid Mechanics Theoretical Pipe Diameter

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the pipe diameter and mean velocity in fluid mechanics, specifically in the context of laminar and turbulent flow. Participants explore the relationships between flow rate, velocity, and pipe diameter, while addressing the implications of flow type on these calculations.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a problem involving flow rate, density, viscosity, and maximum velocity, seeking to find the pipe diameter or mean velocity.
  • Another participant points out an error in the units of velocity, emphasizing the importance of correct unit representation in calculations.
  • A participant suggests that the mean velocity could be approximated as half of the maximum velocity, specifically for laminar flow, while noting that this ratio differs in turbulent flow.
  • It is mentioned that after calculating the diameter for laminar flow, the Reynolds number should be checked to ensure the flow type has not transitioned to turbulent.
  • A later reply indicates that the mean velocity was calculated by dividing the maximum velocity by two, resulting in a Reynolds number of 1280, which suggests laminar flow.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the relationship between mean and maximum velocity, particularly in the context of laminar versus turbulent flow. There is no consensus on the correct approach to determining the pipe diameter due to the presence of multiple unknowns in the equations presented.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the need for clarity in unit representation and the potential implications of flow type on calculations. There are unresolved assumptions regarding the applicability of the mean velocity approximation across different flow regimes.

eastend111
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Homework Statement


I need to find the pipe diameter or mean velocity.
Q= 0.01m^3s
Density= 960kg m^3
Viscosity = 0.081 Pa s
Max Velocity = 1.8 m s

Homework Equations


Mean velocity= 4Q/pi.D^2

The Attempt at a Solution


I have two unknowns in this equation so I'm unable to find D or Mean Velocity. Am I right in thinking the mean velocity is max velocity/2? And does this work for laminar/Turbulent/transitional flow? Any help appreciated. Thanks
 
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eastend111 said:
Q= 0.01m^3s
Density= 960kg m^3
Viscosity = 0.081 Pa s
Max Velocity = 1.8 m s
Even I know that velocity does not have units of m s :eek:

Your first priority should be to show units correctly. Not only will it help discipline your thinking, but units correctly incorporated into equations allow an independent check of formulae.

Please fix all the units, and show them correctly in a follow-up post.
eastend111 said:

Homework Equations


Mean velocity= 4Q/pi.D^2
Another example of sloppiness. :mad: This desperately needs some parentheses to make it correct.
 
eastend111 said:

Homework Statement


I need to find the pipe diameter or mean velocity.
Q= 0.01m^3s
Density= 960kg m^3
Viscosity = 0.081 Pa s
Max Velocity = 1.8 m s

Homework Equations


Mean velocity= 4Q/pi.D^2

The Attempt at a Solution


I have two unknowns in this equation so I'm unable to find D or Mean Velocity. Am I right in thinking the mean velocity is max velocity/2? And does this work for laminar/Turbulent/transitional flow? Any help appreciated. Thanks
They must be referring to laminar flow, where the maximum velocity is twice the average velocity. In turbulent flow, the ratio is much closer to 1. As a check on this, once you find the diameter for laminar flow, you should calculate the Reynolds number to make sure that the laminar-turbulent transition hasn't been exceeded. If it has, then you need to start looking at the case of turbulent flow.
 
Thanks for your reply, much appreciated. I have divided by 2 to get the mean velocity. I've then plugged it into the Reynolds Number formula to get 1280. Which means it is laminar flow.
 

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