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jason.bourne
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can anybody give the physical examples of source and sink flows?
Fluid mechanics: source and sink flows
- Thread starter jason.bourne
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In summary, the conversation discusses the physical examples of source and sink flows, including inlet pipes and plugholes. Other examples are mentioned, such as boundary layer flows, flows in turbines, compressors, and centrifugal pumps. The concept of source and sink flows is explained, and their practical application in describing flow over a wing is mentioned, specifically the vortex panel method. A link is also provided for more information on the topic.
- #2
tiny-tim
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jason.bourne said:
Inlet pipes and plugholes?
- #3
jason.bourne
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well m not sure about that. are there any other examples something like in boundary layer flows or flows in turbines or compressors or centrifugal pumps?
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rbeale98
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think of source flow pouring water on the floor in a straight uniform stream. When it hits the floor it can only move in two dimensions, so its like the water appears from a single point on the floor. Sink flow is like if there was a drain in the floor and the area around the drain was sloping inward so as to draw water in. is this what you are asking?
- #5
jason.bourne
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thank you so much for replying. i almost lost the hopes.
i guess you are trying to make it conceptually clear. well i got the concept. But my question is, do these flows (source or sink flows) apart from what you explained it above occur when we analyze flow over wings of aircraft or in any boundary layer flows or in any of the power producing or absorbing devices like turbines or compressors...?
i guess you are trying to make it conceptually clear. well i got the concept. But my question is, do these flows (source or sink flows) apart from what you explained it above occur when we analyze flow over wings of aircraft or in any boundary layer flows or in any of the power producing or absorbing devices like turbines or compressors...?
- #6
rbeale98
- 52
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these flows do not exist by themselves in the examples you provided. but they do have a practical application to describing flow over a wing. its called the vortex panel method
i think this is what you are looking for. http://www.engapplets.vt.edu/fluids/vpm/vpminfo.html
i think this is what you are looking for. http://www.engapplets.vt.edu/fluids/vpm/vpminfo.html
- #7
jason.bourne
- 82
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thank you very much
FAQ: Fluid mechanics: source and sink flows
What is a source flow in fluid mechanics?
A source flow in fluid mechanics is a type of flow where fluid is continuously being pushed outwards from a single point. This creates a radial flow pattern, and the strength of the source flow is determined by the rate at which fluid is being pushed out.
How does a sink flow differ from a source flow?
A sink flow is the opposite of a source flow, where fluid is being pulled inwards towards a single point. This creates a reverse radial flow pattern, and the strength of the sink flow is determined by the rate at which fluid is being pulled in.
What are some real-world examples of source and sink flows?
Source and sink flows can be seen in various natural phenomena such as ocean currents, wind patterns, and even the flow of blood in our bodies. They are also commonly used in engineering and design, such as in the ventilation systems of buildings and the propulsion systems of aircraft and ships.
How are source and sink flows mathematically represented?
Source and sink flows are commonly represented using mathematical equations, such as the 2-D incompressible flow equations. These equations take into account the velocity, pressure, and density of the fluid to determine the flow pattern and strength of the source or sink.
What are some practical applications of understanding source and sink flows?
Understanding source and sink flows is crucial in various fields such as fluid dynamics, aerodynamics, and hydrodynamics. It allows scientists and engineers to accurately predict and control the flow of fluids, which is essential in designing efficient and safe systems and structures.