CFD simulation of the flow pattern for drag reducing fluids in turbulent pipe flows

Abstract

In the present work, the flow pattern in pipe flows has been simulated for drag reducing fluids using a low Reynolds number k-ε model. The model uses a non-linear molecular viscosity and damping function to account for near wall effects. The comparison between the predictions and the experimental profiles of axial velocity and kinetic energy are in good agreement. A systematic study has been undertaken to investigate the effect of rheological parameters and to consider the modification to the flow that arises in the presence of a fluid yield stress.