A variational approach to non-steady non-Newtonian flow in a circular pipe (Q760273)

The transient response of a non-Newtonian power-law fluid to several assumed forms of pressure pulse in a circular tube is analysed by the semi-direct variational method of \textit{L. V. Kantovorich} and \textit{V. I. Krylov} [Approximate methods of higher analysis (1958; Zbl 0083.353)]. Velocity profiles are shown for several power-law indices, and by comparing the results for the Newtonian case with the exact solution given by \textit{P. Szymanski} [J. Math. Pures. Appl., IX. Ser. 11, 67-107 (1932; Zbl 0004.08303)], it is observed that the results are good to 5\%.