Influence of Tip Shape on Reynolds Number Sensitivity for a Seven Hole Pressure Probe

Abstract

The effects of tip shape on Reynolds number sensitivity of a seven hole pressure probe are studied over a range of flows associated with practical use of turbomachinery. It is shown that at low flow angles the response of a conical or hemispherical tipped probe is independent of a Reynolds number above Re = 3000, and at high flow angles Re = 6000. Despite there not being a discernible difference in the average error in flow properties at different Reynolds numbers between the two tip shapes, it is shown that the hemispherical tip is preferred because the pressure distributions around the tip are more consistent.