Theory

Fluid Dynamics
Theory: Fluid Dynamics

Flow Profile
• The Shape of the Flow Due to
Friction and Viscous Forces in Re = Reynolds #
the Pipe V = Fluid velocity
Reynolds # ID = Pipe ID
• The Measure of the Shape of the  = Kinematic viscosity
Flow Profile (ft2/sec or m2/sec)
Theory: Fluid Dynamics
Flow Profile Regions
• Laminar
– Stratified, parabolic profile
Re = 0 to 2000
• Transitional
– Undefined profile
Re = 2000 to 4000
• Turbulent
– Flattened profile
Re = >4000
Theory: Fluid Dynamics
Flow Profile Factor (kRe)
• Diametrical Interrogations
• Theoretical Correction Factor
Based on Re
– Nikuratze’s Equation
– V = kRe X Velocity
– Ranges:
• laminar = 0.75
• Transitional  0.85
• Turbulent= 0.91 to 0.99
NOTE: A 10:1 change in v results in
<1% change in flow.

Example: V = 5 ft/sec and ID = 6”

v = 1010-6-6 v = 10010-6-6
Re = 250,000 Re = 25,000
kRe
Re
= 0.944 kRe
Re
= 0.934
Theory: Fluid Dynamics

Straight-Run Requirements
• Fully Developed Flow Profile
• 10 Upstream/5 Downstream dia.
• Disturbances
– bends
– valves 10D 5D
– wells
– tees
– insertions