Module 2

DIMENSIONAL ANALYSIS

SUBJECT: APPLIED HYDRAULICS (AH)

By

Ms. Divyashree P. Yadav

Buckingham’s 𝜋-theorem

¡This method of dimensional analysis is used when the independent

variables are more than 4.

¡Buckingham’s 𝜋-Theorem states that, “If there are ‘n’ variables in a

physical quantity or phenomenon and if these variables contains
‘m’ fundamental dimensions (M,L,T), then the variables are
arranged into (n – m) dimensionless terms”.

¡This dimensionless term is known as ‘ 𝜋-term’ .

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The frictional torque (T) of a disc of diameter (D) rotating at a
speed (N) in a fluid of viscosity (μ) and density (ρ) is given by
T = D5 N 2 ρ ɸ μ . Prove this by dimensional analysis.
D2 N ρ

Given : T = f (D, N, μ, ρ)

or

f 1 (T, D, N, μ, ρ) = 0 …. Equation 1

Total no. of variables, n = 5

Total no. of repeating variable, m = 3

Total no. of 𝜋-term = n – m = 5 – 3 = 2

Hence equation 1 can be written as,

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Each 𝜋- term = m + 1 = 3 + 1 = 4
Selected repeating variables = D, N, ρ
𝜋1 = D N ρ .T
𝜋2 = D N ρ .μ
Dimensional Analysis of 𝜋 1

M 0 L 0 T 0 = L a1 .( T -1) b1 . (M L -3) c1 . (M L2 T-2)

Equating the powers of a, b, c in 𝜋 1 & 𝜋 2 on both the sides i.e

L.H.S & R.H.S,
Power of M, 0 = c1 + 1 ∴ c1 = -1
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𝜋 1 = D -5 . N -2 . ρ -1 . T = T
D5 . N2 . ρ1

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Q Derive on the basis of dimensional analysis a
suitable parameters to present the thrust
developed by a propeller. Assume that the
thrust P depends upon the angular velocity
omega, speed of advanced V, diameter D,
dynamic viscosity myu, mass density row,
elasticity of the fluid medium which can be
denoted by the speed of sound in the medium
C.
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