Non-invasive and high-resolution ultrasonic velocimetry in complex fluids

Flow simulations or modeling is often useful in the design of industrial processes involving flows of complex non-Newtonian fluid suspensions. The UVP system is an important tool for assisting in complex flow problems by validating theoretical predictions with experimental results. With detailed and accurate experimental flow data available, it will be possible to develop more accurate flow models using CFD.

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model validation.

Pipe flow velocity profile measurement examples

Complex flows – transitional, turbulent flow

Transitional and turbulent flow, especially in non-Newtonian fluids, is still an outstanding problem in fluid dynamics. Not enough experimental data is available in pipes or complex geometries to validate theoretical predictions and Reynolds numbers. The lack of experimental data can be reduced by using UVP to measure detailed velocity profiles at different flow rates in various fluids.

Complex flows – transitional, turbulent flow.

Pipe flow velocity profile measurement examples

Flow mapping in complex geometries

Flow through complex geometries such as abrupt contractions and enlargements, open channels as well as valves are important problems in fluid dynamics because they are integral components in pipeline systems. Understanding the energy loss mechanisms in complex geometries is, therefore, a prerequisite to good engineering design of pipeline systems. There are very few experimental results available for viscous fluids in complex geometries. Most of the complex flows which are encountered in the industry can only be studied without disturbing the flow to be measured. UVP is a capable tool to study such flows.

Flow mapping in complex geometries

Diaphragm valve velocity distribution using ultrasound Doppler velocimetry

Temporal flow behavior studies

Detailed experiments can be done on spatio-temporal flow conditions using UVP. CFD offers tools to design and predict different dynamic flow situations but involves a number of assumptions. Important information can be determined from time evolution studies in different applications, for example mixing. To design more efficient processes these flows need to be measured and quantified. CFD is a modelling of the reality, but Incipientus TM UVP is a measurement of the reality.

Temporal flow behavior studies.

Velocity profile time evolution measurement.

Complex flows – multiphase flow

In the process industries, it is often required to pump fluids through a pipeline network from storage facilities to various processing units. Monitoring and understanding the flow behavior of a complex multiphase fluid in the production or pipeline is therefore essential. UVP can be used to detect different flow regimes and the solids-liquid interface in multiphase flow. Experimental data can aid engineers to gain a better understanding of these complex flows and to develop more accurate predictions.

Complex flows – multiphase flow.

Multiphase flow velocity profile measurement.

Incipientus Flow Visualizer (IFV)

Use Incipientus patented touch-free sensor technology to measure velocity profiles in complex geometries, without disturbing the flow field. With Incipientus sensor technology, you can now use medical ultrasound imaging in fluid mechanics and other engineering applications.