Compressible Flow: Flow in nozzles

In summary: These parameters are important for designing efficient and safe nozzles. In summary, we discussed the condition for choked flow in converging, diverging, and converging-diverging nozzles, as well as when we can assume that the back pressure is equal to the exit pressure. We also looked at the conditions for shock waves to form and how to check for them. Finally, we explored the concept of design pressure and design conditions and their importance in nozzle design.
  • #1
aznkid310
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Homework Statement



I am currently studying for finals, and I am really confused about compressible flow in nozzles. Some questions I have:

1) What is exactly is the condition for choked flow for converging, diverging, and converging-diverging nozzles?
2) When can we assume that the back pressure pb = pe (exit pressure)?
3) What is the condition for shock waves to form? How do we know when to check for them? How do we know where they are (ie in the throat, just upstream/downstream...)
4) What is the design pressure and design conditions? What do we use these for?

Homework Equations



Not choked: p0 > pb > p* where p0 = stagnation pressure (no velocity)
pb = back prz
p* = critical prz
Choked: pb < p*

Shock wave if: p*>pb>pe (where?)



The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
1) For a converging nozzle, the condition for choked flow is when the back pressure (pb) is less than the critical pressure (p*). For a diverging nozzle, the condition for choked flow is when the back pressure is greater than the critical pressure. For a converging-diverging nozzle, the condition for choked flow is when the back pressure is equal to the critical pressure. 2) We can assume that the back pressure pb = pe (exit pressure) when the flow is choked. This is because when the flow is choked, there is a maximum mass flow rate and the pressure at the exit must be equal to the back pressure in order to maintain this mass flow rate. 3) Shock waves form when the critical pressure (p*) is greater than the back pressure (pb) but less than the exit pressure (pe). The shock wave can form anywhere in the nozzle, depending on the flow conditions. To check for shock waves, we can calculate the Mach number at various points in the nozzle and compare it with the critical Mach number. If the Mach number is greater than the critical Mach number, then a shock wave will form. 4) The design pressure and design conditions are used to determine the operating parameters of the nozzle. The design pressure is the pressure at which the nozzle is designed to operate, and the design conditions are the flow conditions such as Mach number and temperature at which the nozzle is designed to operate.
 
  • #3


I can provide some general information and guidelines for understanding compressible flow in nozzles. However, without specific context or equations, it may be difficult to give a complete response.

1) The condition for choked flow in a nozzle is when the back pressure (pb) is equal to or less than the critical pressure (p*). For a converging nozzle, choked flow occurs at the throat where the cross-sectional area is the smallest. For a diverging nozzle, choked flow occurs at the exit where the cross-sectional area is the largest. For a converging-diverging nozzle, choked flow can occur at either the throat or the exit, depending on the design and operating conditions.

2) The assumption that the back pressure is equal to the exit pressure (pb = pe) can be made when the flow is fully expanded at the exit. This typically occurs when the back pressure is equal to or less than the critical pressure.

3) Shock waves form when the back pressure is greater than the critical pressure, but less than the exit pressure (p*>pb>pe). The exact location of the shock wave in the nozzle will depend on the design and operating conditions. To check for shock waves, you can use the equations provided in your course material to calculate the back pressure and compare it to the critical and exit pressures.

4) Design pressure and design conditions refer to the specific operating conditions and pressures that a nozzle is designed for. These are important for ensuring that the nozzle can handle the expected flow and prevent any damage or failure. These values are typically determined through calculations and simulations, taking into account the specific application and requirements.

In summary, understanding compressible flow in nozzles requires knowledge of the flow conditions, pressure ratios, and design considerations. It is important to carefully analyze and calculate these parameters in order to properly design and operate a nozzle.
 

Related to Compressible Flow: Flow in nozzles

1. What is compressible flow?

Compressible flow refers to the flow of a fluid in which there are significant changes in density due to variations in pressure and temperature. This type of flow is commonly seen in high-speed flows, such as in jet engines and supersonic aircraft.

2. What is a nozzle?

A nozzle is a device used to accelerate the flow of a fluid by increasing its velocity. It typically consists of a converging section, where the flow area decreases, and a throat section, where the flow area is at its minimum. Nozzles are commonly used in rockets, jet engines, and other applications that require high-speed fluid flow.

3. How does compressible flow differ from incompressible flow?

In compressible flow, the density of the fluid changes significantly due to changes in pressure and temperature, whereas in incompressible flow, the density remains constant. Compressible flow is also characterized by the presence of shock waves, whereas incompressible flow does not exhibit this phenomenon.

4. What is the role of nozzles in compressible flow?

Nozzles play a crucial role in compressible flow by accelerating the fluid and converting its pressure energy into kinetic energy. This allows for efficient and high-speed flow, making it essential in applications such as rocket propulsion and jet engines.

5. How does the shape of a nozzle affect compressible flow?

The shape of a nozzle has a significant impact on compressible flow. A converging nozzle increases the velocity of the flow, while a diverging nozzle decreases the velocity. The shape also determines the critical pressure ratio, which is the ratio of the exit pressure to the inlet pressure at which the flow becomes sonic (or reaches the speed of sound).

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