Velocity Profiles of Liquid Flow Through Circular Tubes and How They Affect Flow Measurement

Abstract

This paper analyzes velocity profiles for flow through circular tubes in laminar, turbulent, and transition region flows and how they affect measurement by flow-meters. Experimental measurements of velocity profiles across the cross-section of straight circular tubes were made using laser doppler velocimetry. In addition, flow visualization was done using the hydrogen bubble technique. Velocity profiles in the laminar and the turbulent flow are quite predictable which allow the determination of meter factors for accurate flow measurement. However, the profiles can not be predicted at all in the transition region. Therefore, for the accuracy of the flowmeter, it must be ensured that the flow is completely in the laminar regime or completely in the turbulent regime. In the laminar flow a bend, even at a large distance, affects the meter factor. The paper also discusses some strategies to restructure the flow to avoid the transition region.