The discussion centers on determining the Reynolds number for a closed pipe spinning like a washing machine, emphasizing the importance of selecting an appropriate characteristic length, typically the diameter. Participants highlight that the choice of length scale directly influences the analysis of flow regimes, whether laminar or turbulent. The conversation also touches on the complexities of simulating flow scenarios, particularly in relation to the physics of the system being studied. Ultimately, understanding the context of the flow is crucial for accurate Reynolds number calculations.
PREREQUISITESStudents and professionals in fluid dynamics, mechanical engineers, and anyone involved in simulating flow scenarios in closed systems, particularly those interested in the effects of rotational motion on flow characteristics.
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.