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Theoretical analysis of the turbulent flow of non-Newtonian slurries in pipes

Journal Article · · AIChE J.; (United States)

A theoretical model is derived which permits the analytical calculation of the friction factor-Reynolds number curves for non-Newtonian slurries flowing isothermally in smooth pipes. This model is based upon the Bingham plastic rheological equation of state. A change of mechanism in the transition phenomenon is observed to occur for N/sub He/ = 5 (10/sup 5/), where N/sub He/ is the familiar Hedstrom number. Below this value turbulence is suppressed relative to Newtonian flow, while above this value the transition is delayed but turbulence is enhanced relative to Newtonian flow. A set of theoretical design curves of friction factor versus Reynolds number covering laminar, transitional, and turbulent flows is calculated and presented for a range of N/sub He/ values from 10/sup 3/ to 10/sup 9/.

Research Organization:
Brigham Young Univ., Provo, UT
OSTI ID:
6500543
Journal Information:
AIChE J.; (United States), Journal Name: AIChE J.; (United States) Vol. 17; ISSN AICEA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English