DRAG REDUCTION IN TWO PHASE AND POLYMER FLOWS

The basic dynamics of turbulent boundary layers of several media is described qualitatively: suspensions of several types and polymer solutions. Despite the considerable differences in these media, it is argued that a number of the flows are affected only in the buffer layer, and drag reduction can result if behavior in the sublayer and buffer layer differ. In polymer solutions, it is argued that molecular expansion is responsible for the difference, and experimental evidence of this expansion is presented, and compared with calculations. It is shown how the so-called diameter effect sheds light on the lift-time of the dissipative eddies through their role in producing the molecular expansion. (Author)

• Corporate Authors:

  Pennsylvania State University, University Park

  Applied Research Laboratory
  University Park, PA  United States  16802
• Authors:
  • Lumley, J L
• Publication Date: 1976-6-15

Media Info

• Pagination: 46 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Additives; Boundary layer; Drag; Polymers; Turbulence; Turbulent boundary layer; Two phase flow
• Old TRIS Terms: Drag reduction; Laminar sublayer measurement; Polymer additives
• Subject Areas: Design; Marine Transportation;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00144362
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: National Technical Information Service
• Report/Paper Numbers: TM-76-173 Tech Memo
• Contract Numbers: N00017-73-C-1418
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Jan 16 1977 12:00AM