Introduction
Introduction
In the Reynolds flow lab experiment, we study the two main types of fluid flow: laminar
and turbulent. Laminar flow occurs when fluid particles move smoothly in parallel
layers with little mixing, typically in thicker (high-viscosity) fluids at slower speeds.
Turbulent flow, on the other hand, is chaotic and involves mixing and energy exchange
throughout the fluid, usually seen in thinner (low-viscosity) fluids at higher speeds. This
experiment uses the Reynolds number, a key measurement tool, to identify whether the
flow is laminar or turbulent, helping us understand how different fluids behave under
various conditions.
AIM
Apparatus
• Hydraulics bench
• Reynold's demonstration apparatus
• Measuring cylinder
• Stopwatch
• Thermometer
Procedure
2. The outflow from the hydraulics bench was connected to the inlet pipe of the
head tank on the Reynolds apparatus.
3. The overflow tube of the head tank was placed into the volumetric tank of the
hydraulics bench.
4. A small tube was attached to the apparatus flow control valve and clamped to a
fixed position in a sink in the lab, with sufficient space left below the tube’s end
to insert a measuring cylinder.
5. The outflow was not returned to the volumetric tank, as it contained dye that
would taint the flow visualization. (Note: Any movement of the outflow tube
during the test would cause changes in flow rate, driven by the height difference
between the head tank surface and the outflow point.)
6. The pump was started, the apparatus flow control valve and bench valve were
slightly opened, and the head tank was allowed to fill with water, ensuring that
the flow visualization pipe was properly filled.
7. Once the water level in the head tank reached the overflow tube, the bench
control valve was adjusted to produce a low overflow rate.
8. With the dye control valve closed, blue dye was added to the dye reservoir until it
was approximately 2/3 full. The needle was attached, the dye assembly was held
over a lab sink, and the valve was opened to ensure a free flow of dye.
9. The dye control valve was closed, the dye injector was mounted on the head
tank, and the injector was lowered until the tip of the needle was slightly above
the bell mouth and centered on its axis.
10. The bench valve and flow control valve were adjusted to return the overflow rate
to a small amount, and the apparatus was left to stand for at least five minutes.
11. The flow control valve was adjusted to achieve a slow trickle outflow, and the dye
control valve was adjusted until a slow flow with clear dye indication was
achieved.
12. The flow volumetric rate was measured by timed water collection.
Discussion
• Laminar Flow: Characterized by smooth and orderly layers with little mixing
between them. The dye injected into the flow remains as a distinct line,
indicating low velocity and minimal turbulence.
• Transitional Flow: Exhibits an unstable pattern where the flow starts to oscillate
and small instabilities form, leading to a mix of laminar and turbulent behavior.
Dye lines become slightly blurred as the velocity increases.
• Turbulent Flow: Marked by chaotic and irregular movement with significant
mixing. The dye disperses quickly across the pipe, indicating high velocity and
eddy formation.
Sources of Error: