Pipe flow measurements over a wide range of Reynolds numbers using liquid helium and various gases

Abstract

We demonstrate that an unusually small pipe flow apparatus using both liquid helium and room temperature gases can span an enormous range of Reynolds numbers. This paper describes the construction and operation of the apparatus in some detail. A wide range of Reynolds numbers is an advantage in any experiment seeking to establish scaling laws. This experiment also adds to evidence already in hand that the normal phase of liquid helium is a Navier–Stokes fluid. Finally, we explore recent questions concerning the influence of molecular motions on the transition to turbulence (Muriel 1998) and are unable to observe any influence.

Reynolds Number Invariance of the Structure Inclination Angle in Wall Turbulence

“…This is of considerable importance since many flows in practical applications are at high Reynolds number, while most laboratory experimental facilities are restricted to 2 -3 orders of magnitude lower Reynolds number. Purpose-built facilities have been constructed to achieve high Reynolds numbers, such as the Princeton superpipe [2] or using cryogenics [3]. However, while much has been learned from these facilities, high Reynolds numbers are obtained by using fluids with low kinematic viscosity.…”

Determining velocity and friction factor for turbulent flow in smooth tubes

“…; 3 Â 10 3 Re 10 5 (46) where y ¼ r w À r is the distance from the inner surface of the tube. Experiments show that at Reynolds numbers above 10 5 the exponent in Eq.…”

Feasibility of large free-standing liquid films in space

“…such as liquid helium [52,53], are used to achieve high Reynolds numbers up to 10 7 . These methods only apply to the three-dimensional turbulence, however.…”