Velocity profiles and unsteady pipe friction in transient flow

Transient conditions in closed conduits have traditionally been modeled as 1D flows with the implicit assumption that velocity profile and friction losses can be accurately predicted using equivalent 1D velocities. Although more complex fluid models have been suggested, there has been little direct experimental basis for selecting one model over another. This paper briefly reviews the significance of the 1D assumption and the historical approaches proposed for improving the numerical modeling of transient events. To address the critical need for better data, an experimental apparatus is described, and preliminary measurements of velocity profiles during two transient events caused by valve operation are presented. The velocity profiles recorded during these transient events clearly show regions of flow recirculation, flow reversal, and an increased intensity of fluid turbulence. The experimental pressures are compared to a water hammer model using a conventional quasi-steady representation of head loss and one with an improved unsteady loss model, with the unsteady model demonstrating a superior ability to track the decay in pressure peak after the first cycle. However, a number of details of the experimental pressure response are still not accurately reproduced by the unsteady friction model.