Date on Master's Thesis/Doctoral Dissertation
12-2016
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Degree Name
M.S.
Department
Mechanical Engineering
Degree Program
Mechanical Engineering, MS
Committee Chair
Williams, Stuart
Committee Co-Chair (if applicable)
Kelecy, Andrea
Committee Member
Kelecy, Andrea
Committee Member
Berson, Eric
Author's Keywords
porous; flow rate; pressure; ergun; forchheimer; darcy
Abstract
This research experimentally observed the relationship between pressure drop and flow rate for high velocity, radial flow through porous media. The criterion for what represents high velocity is a function of the Reynold’s number of the flow. Pressure drop – flow rate curves were developed by flowing air and water through the porous carbon block samples. Each sample’s permeability was calculated from on the air test results. Each sample’s porosity was determined through digital microscope image analysis. Darcy’s Law, the Forchheimer equation, and the Ergun equation were converted to the radial flow domain and compared to the experimental data. The modified Forchheimer equation appeared to be the most accurate predictor of a component of the physical results, although further geometric analysis is necessary to determine the form drag coefficient and end effects. Obtaining these values will allow for a full pressure drop – flow rate relationship prediction.
Recommended Citation
Okruch, Matthew William, "Experimental observation of the relationship between the pressure drop and flow rate of radial flow through porous media." (2016). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 2596.
https://doi.org/10.18297/etd/2596
