Abstract
The flow of a non-Newtonian, power-law fluid directed either tangentially or normally to a flat plate of finite length and infinite width (two-dimensional flow) is considered. The problem is investigated numerically using the code ANSYS FLUENT. This problem has been investigated in the past but only for shear-thinning fluids (n < 1). We extend the investigation for the case of shear-thinning, Newtonian and shear-thickening fluids, covering a wide range of Reynolds numbers (from very low to very high). For low Reynolds numbers and low power-law index (n < 0.6) the drag coefficient obeys the relationship c D = A/Re, both for tangential and normal flow. Equations for the quantity A have been derived as functions of the power-law index. For normal flow, the drag coefficient tends to become independent of the power-law index, both for shear-thinning and shear-thickening fluids at high Reynolds numbers.
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Recommended by Associate Editor Dongshin Shin
A. Pantokratoras received his Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from the University of Thrace, Greece in 1989. Currently, he is Professor at the Department of Civil Engineering at Democritus University of Thrace, Xanthi, Greece. His research interests include fluid mechanics, water supply, sewerage networks and drinking water treatment.
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Pantokratoras, A. Further results on non-Newtonian power-law flows past a two-dimensional flat plate with finite length. J Mech Sci Technol 27, 1995–2003 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12206-013-0515-y
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12206-013-0515-y