Measurements in Supersonic Flow |
The aim of this laboratory experiment is to familiarise students with a simple application of the rules of gas dynamics. To complete the work successfully a student will need to understand the behaviour of supersonic flow along with the equipment and techniques required to perform measurement of this flow. A secondary aim is to familiarise students with alternate methods of theoretical flow prediction. In this case direct molecular simulation of gas flow can be applied to the near-continuum region to determine its accuracy against the known solutions provided by classical gas dynamic theory. |
Experimental
Procedure |
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With an empty test section, open the control valve and establish supersonic flow in the channel. Measure the static pressure readings along the length of the nozzle. Measure the total pressure reading for the upstream flow. Measure the atmospheric pressure in the lab. Recorded data can be written in the Tables shown here. |
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Install a test shape into the test section of the channel.
Again open the valve to establish supersonic flow. Record the shock and
expansion wave patterns using the Schlieren optical system. Some examples are shown below, |
![]() ![]() ![]() Axi-symmetric Cone at M=1.7, M=2.2 and M=3.0 ![]() ![]() ![]() Image enhanced versions of the above Cone flow ![]() ![]() Flow at the nose of a bluff body at Mach 2.2 |
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Comment on the differences in Mach number predicted by these two methods. Give explanations. |
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