[MEC2003]

SECTION C – FLUID DYNAMICS

3. A gravity driven pipe system transports oil between two large reservoirs. The
elevation head between the two reservoirs is Z1 – Z2 = 6 m (see figure Q3).
The oil has a density of 900 kg/m3 and shear viscosity of 2.5 mPa.s. The pipe
is of circular cross section with an internal diameter of 100 mm, has a relative
roughness height of 0.01 mm, and has a total length of 200 m. The inlet and
outlet head loss coefficients for the pipe system are Ki = 0.5 and Ko = 1,
respectively. The fluid is transported around two 90o elbows which each have
a loss coefficient of Ke = 0.95, and through two partially closed valves which
each have a loss coefficient of Kv = 3.

(a) Use an iterative approach to find the Reynolds number for the pipe flow
system. Iterate a maximum of three times only, and clearly mark all
construction lines on your Moody Chart.
(12 marks)
(b) The volume flow rate of oil is increased to 0.02 m /s by a pump which is
3

installed within the system. How much pumping power is required to

achieve this flow rate given that the overall efficiency of the pump is
80%?
(8 marks)
(c) The cost of electricity is 10 pence per kWh. How much does it cost to
run the pump per year given that the pump is operated 12 hours a day for
365 days a year?
(2 marks)
(d) How much money would be saved per year if the surface of the pipe was
smooth rather than slightly rough?
(3 marks)

Figure Q3: Pipe flow system for Question 3.

END OF PAPER
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