An approximate analysis for contraction and converging flows (Q1116750)

An approximate analysis is presented for the flow of fluids through planar and axisymmetric contractions. Energy principles are employed to relate the entry pressure drop to flow rate and fundamental rheometric properties. One of the aims of the analysis is to investigate the influence of extensional viscosity on such flows, particularly with regard to the occurrence and enhancement of vortex motion in the entry corners. For the sake of mathematical simplicity, independent power-law models are used to represent the shear and extensional viscosity functions. The analysis indicates that, once significant vortex motion is present, enhancement occurs whenever the Trouton ratio is an increasing function of shear-rate (or stretch-rate). It is readily seen how the occurrence of vortices serves as a stress relief mechanism. Indeed, for highly stretch-thickening materials, the entry pressure drop is seen to be dominated by shear properties. The power-law parameters of the extensional viscosity function may be obtained in a straight-forward way from entry pressure drop versus flow rate data. Finally, the extension and application of the analysis to other similar flows, such as through converging nozzles, is briefly discussed.