Kinetics Corporation

Features
Open circuit wind tunnel is ideal for universities-classrooms and research, but noise may be high. Open circuit has only 10 to 15% more power requirement than that of close circuit, so it is not as inefficient as thought. Pusher' configuration (fan is upstream ottest section) is used because it is better than Sucker' configuration (fan is downstream of test section) that test section static pressure is slightly higher than the room ambient pressure, flow is outward rather than inward, and easy to access the model from tunnel outlet is obtained.

Descriptions
The Centrifugal fan is used to drive the open circuit wind tunnel from the upstream end. Single inlet centrifugal fan is used since it produces a vortex-type flow due to the asymmetric positioning of the impeller which would aid wall flow attachment in the wide-angle diffuser. The centrifugal fan runs with reasonable steadiness and efficiency over a wide range of flow conditions. Moreover, the noise and pulsations generated by the centrifugal fan is adequately low. The wide-angle diffuser is used for flow area expansion to obtain low velocity at settling chamber downstream of fan. A wide-angle diffuser is a means of reducing the length for a given area ratio rather than effecting a pressure recovery; generally the net pressure rise through a screened wide-angle diffuser is negative but small. For conditioning of quality of flow, hoenycomb and screens are put in the settling chamber after the diffuser before the contraction cone. Large scale turbulence is reduced by honeycomb flowstraighteners. Honeycomb straightens the flow by reducing the lateral velocities. Screens reduces the axial turbulence. Fine screens break the existing turbulence into smaller vortices. A sufficient distance is provided that these small disturbances die out before they reach the model. The best way of obtaining a current of air which is uniform and is free from eddies is to raise its velocity very rapidly from a very small value to that required in experiment by making the air traverse a pipe of very wide cross-section passing into a narrow one by way of a suitably round-off mouth piece. The contraction cone has been designed to have such a shape that no separation occurs. After building the right design of fan, diffuser, honeycomb and screens, and contraction cone, the quality flow is achieved at test section. To minimize the secondary flow problems in the corners of rectangular contractions, a 45 degree fillet is installed at the start of the contraction to form an octagonal shape. These fillets are carried through the test section to prevent boundary layer growth in the corners of the test section as well as to achieve uniform longitudinal pressure in the working section. The test section is fitted with two removable acrylic windows one on each side.

Range of Experiments
1. Flow past bluff and streamlined bodies with pressure and velocity observations in the wake
2. Influence of aspect ratio on aerofoil performance
3. Performance of aerofoil with flap, influence of flap angle on lift, drag and stall
4. Pressure distribution around a cylinder under sub and super-critical flow conditions
5. Study characteristics of models involving basic measurement of lift
6. Study characteristics of models involving basic measurement of drag forces
7. Study of the characteristics of three dimensional aerofoil involving measurement of lift, drag and pitching moment
8. Study of pressure distribution around an aerofoil model to derive the lift and comparison with direct measurements of lift
9. Drag force on a bluff body normal to an airflow
10. Streamlines visualization using a smoke generator

Features
Open circuit wind tunnel is ideal for universities-classrooms and research, but noise may be high. Open circuit has only 10 to 15% more power requirement than that of close circuit. so it is not as inefficient as thought. Sucked configuration is used (fan is downstream of test section) that test section static pressure is slightly lower than the room ambient pressure, flow is inward and the access the model by opening the walls of test section.

FAN
The axial flow fan is used to drive the open circuit wind tunnel from the downstream end.

Diffuser
The diffuser is used to accommodate the fan with larger diameter dimen.sion than test section width or height.

SETTLING CHAMBER: HONEYCOMB ANO SCREENS
For conditioning of quality of flow, honeycomb and screens are put at the inlet before the contraction cone. Large scale turbulence is reduced by honeycomb flowstraighteners. Honeycomb straightens the flow by reducing the lateral velocities. Screens reduces the axial turbulence. Fine screens break the existing turbulence into smaller vortices. A suffi-cient distance is provided that these small disturbances die out before they reach the model.

CONTRACTION CONE
The best way of obtaining a current of air which is uniform and is free from eddies is to raise its velocity very rapidly from a very small value to that required in experiment by making the air traverse a pipe of very wide cross-section passing into a narrow one by way of a suitably round.off mouth piece. The contraction has designed to have such a shape that no separation occurs.
TEST SECTION
After building the right design of fan, diffuser, honeycomb and screens, and contraction cone, the quality flow is achieved at test section. The test section is fitted with four transparent acrylic walls for good Viewing of tested model and lighting and taking photos.

Range of Experiments
1. Flow past bluff and streamlined bodies with pressure and velocity observations in the wake
2. Investigations into boundary layer development
3. Pressure distribution around a cylinder under sub and super-critical flow conditions
4. Study characteristics of models involving basic measurement of lift
5. Study characteristics of models involving basic measurement of drag forces
6. Study of the characteristics of aerofoil wing involving measure.ment of lift, drag and pitching moment
7. Study of pressure distribution around an aerofoil wing model to derive the lift and comparison with direct measurements of lift
8. Drag force on a bluff body normal to an airflow
9. With Smoke Generator and Probe: Flow visualization using injected smoke.

Description
The FM03 is an open, continuously operating supersonic wind tunnel with a rectangular measuring section. Transonic and supersonic flows from Ma 0.8 up to Ma 1.8 can be realized with interchangeable measuring sections and nozzle profiles. Supersonic flow and the occurring shock waves can be directly ob.served with the supplied Schlieren optic apparatus. The continuous operation can allow enough time to take measurements and to observe the phenomena. Four aerofoil models are supplied: a wedge, a double wedge, a bullet and a rocket. A flow straightener at the inlet ensures a low degree of turbulence. The tunnel is driven by a speed controlled vacuum pump (included). The pump is effectively silenced so it can be placed in the same room as the wind tunnel.

Range of Experiments
- Pressure distribution along a convergent-divergent nozzle
- Pressure distribution and pressure loss in channel flow at high Mach number
- Demonstration of Schlieren method
- Observation of flow patterns around the aerofoils with the aid of Schlieren optics
- Observation of occurring shock waves with the aid of Schlieren optics
- Determination of Mach Number via the angle of shock waves
- Comparison of theory and experiment

Features
1. Demonstrate Air flow measurement in pipes with air as the working fluid.
2. Demonstrate the performance of a centrifugal fan.

Descriptions
Fluid Friction Measurements Apparatus has been designed for students to study on the fluid friction head losses of an incompressible fluid flow. The unit is floor stand to study the friction losses on smooth bore pipes of various diameters and a roughened pipe. In addition to the study of losses in straight pipes, a wide range of accessories are also provided including 90. bend, elbow and T, 450 elbow, sudden contraction and enlargement, inline strainer, various valves and flow-meters.
The investigation on friction head losses in various straight pipes can be done over a range of Reynolds numbers from 103 to nearly lOS, covering the laminar, transitional and turbulent flow regimes in smooth pipe. A roughened pipe is supplied which, at the higher Reynolds number, shows a clear departure from the typical smooth bore pipe characteristics.
For each size of test pipe, a short sample is provided loose so that students will be able to measure the exact diameter and visualize the nature of the internal finish. The ratio of the pipe diameter to distance of the pressure tapping from the ends of each pipe has been selected to minimize end entry effects. Isolating valves are provided so that the pipe to be tested can be selected without disconnecting or draining the system. A hydraulics bench is also supplied as the source of the incompressible fluid, which is water in this case.

Range of Experiments
1. laminar to turbulent flow regimes in-pipes
2. Energy losses in pipe fittings and bends
3. Flow measurement using venture meter
4. Flow measurement using orifice plate
5. Use of manometers

Description
Fluid Friction Measurements Apparatus has been designed for students to study on the fluid friction head losses of an incompressible fluid flow. The unit is floor stand to study the friction losses on smooth bore pipes of various diameters and a roughened pipe. In addition to the study of losses in straight pipes, a wide range of accessories are also provided including 90. bend, elbow and T, 45. elbow, sudden contraction and enlargement, inline strainer, various valves and flow-meters. The investigation on friction head losses in various straight pipes can be done over a range of Reynolds numbers from 103 to nearly 105, covering the laminar, transitional and turbulent flow regimes in smooth pipe. A roughened pipe is supplied which, at the higher Reynolds number, shows a clear departure from the typical smooth bore pipe characteristics. For each size of test pipe, a short sample is provided loose so that students will be able to measure the exact diameter and visualize the nature of the internal finish. The ratio of the pipe diameter to distance of the pressure tapping from the ends of each pipe has been selected to minimize end entry effects. Isolating valves are provided so that the pipe to be tested can be selected without disconnecting or draining the system. A hydraulics bench is also supplied as the source of the incompressible fluid, which is water in this case.

Range of Experiments
1. Laminar to turbulent flow regimes in-pipes
2. Energy losses in pipe fittings and bends
3. Flow measurement using venture meter
4. Flow measurement using orifice plate
5. Use of manometers

Features
1. Demonstrate the principle operating characteristics of different types of pumps
2. Allowing the differences in performance to be compared
3. Measurements of head, flow, speed and torque allow to plot the performance of pumps

Description
This Multi-Pump Test Set has been designed to help students understand the characteristic, performance and application of the various pumps found in the industry. A total of four pumps are presented in this bed. All pumps are installed with a suction and discharge pressure gauge and permanently mounted to reduce the tedious task of removing, interchanging, retightening, plus the most important aspect of preventing accidents from occurring due to wrong installation and unnecessary losses of downtime in a limited laboratory lesson.
The unit is self-contained with heavy duty lockable swivel castors. Four pumps are supplied with the unit namely centrifugal pump, turbine pump, gear pump and vane pump. Provision is made such that the testing of these various types of pumps is made possible by means of change-over valves in a closed system.
A PLC control panel is used to allow the correct combination of suction, head, flow, pump speed and torque to be unambiguously displayed for the selected pump test. The LCD graphic display of PLC shows the flow diagram with sensors attached for each pump installed.

Range of Experiments

Features
1. Demonstrate Air flow measurement in pipes with air as the working fluid.
2. Demonstrate the performance of a centrifugal fan.

Descriptions
The apparatus consists of a centrifugal fan driven by a dynamometer mounted variable speed AC motor. A smooth walled pipe of approximately 80 mm diameter is connected by a diffuser to the suction eye of the centrifugal fan. Air enters by way of a nozzle.
Air flow rate is measured by a venturi meter and an orifice plate. The velocity is obtained using total head tube (pitot tube) mounted in the section near the downstream end of the pipe.
Discharge from the fan may be varied by means of a slide valve to give a range of air velocity in the pipe up to approximately 30 m/s corresponding to Reynolds Numbers of up to 140,000. A silencer is fitted to the fan discharge. By using the nozzle as a flowmeter the characteristics of the fan may be studied.

Range of Experiments
1. Air flow measurement by an orifice plate and a venturi meter.
2. The air velocity measurement with pitot tube.
3. Study of fan performance

Features
FM08 Hydrostatic Test Bench enables a detailed Mechanics of Fluids Experimental Course to be followed. The equipment is designed to provide a clear visual appreciation of hydraulic principles.

Description
It is test bench for basic properties of hydrostatics of fluid. The bench has water tank and pump. Others components are on bench and storage underneath. The unit consists of Constant Level Tubes that demonstrates Pascal's Law of fluid up-thrust included with a comprehensive investigation into hydrostatic pressure.
Also included is a balance scale to determine the specific gravity of solids by immersion in water demonstrating the relationship to Archimedes Principle of fluid displacement. The hydrostatic bench has the capability of a comprehensive investigations into measurement of fluid viscosity using falling sphere viscosimeters and the measurement of fluid surface tension by the Capillary-Rise method.
The unit also consists of pressure measuring devices with comprehensive experiments which includes an aneroid barometer to measure atmospheric pressure, and investigation into the calibration of a Bourdon Tube Pressure Gauge using a Dead Weight calibration technique.
Also included are two manometers to measure pressure, one filled with mercury and the other filled with water, that demonstrates the difference in range and sensitivity between the two types of fluids for manometry.
The unit consists of all of the devices and accessories that are required to perform the listed experiments including all of the plumbing, pumps and valve control to direct the fluids in the system.
Also included is a built in safety feature that directs fluid (especially mercury) into flasks in the case of over-pressurizing the manometers.

Range of Experiments
1. Manometry -principles and application
2. Operation of a Bourdon pressure gauge
3. Operation of a Barometer
4. Verification of Archimedes Law
5. Measure fluid levels by vernier hook and point gauge
6. Demonstration of fluid up-thrust (Pascal's Law)
7. Capillarity
8. Measurement of viscosity
9. Density and specific gravity
10. Dead weight calibration of pressure gauges
11. Hydrostatic pressure on a plane surface
12. Determine position of center of pressure
13. Determination of metacentric height

Features
- study of fluid mechanic phenomena in continuous flow, variable inclination open channels
- study of civil engineering, or agriculture to define and measure all the hydraulic parameters associated with real works.
- fully transparent for a direct visualisation of all the hydraulic phenomena
- the channels can be tilted by up to 3% so as to simulate the normal degrees of inclination necessary for the regular operation of real channels.
- possible to obtain a negative slope (counter-inclinations) to -1%.

Description
Flow Channel equipment allows the student to study water flow in an open channel and also verify the Chezy equation and Mannings Friction Factor The experimental and demonstration apparatus consists of an open channel of rectangular cross section supported by steel frame and the slope of the channel can be varied. The channel walls are made from clear laminated glass (safety glass) so that full visibility of the flow characteristics can be achieved. A number of test models are provided along with inclinometer and surface profile measuring instrument.
The electrically operated centrifugal pump draws the water from the collection tank via storage tanks and transfers it to the feed tank which is necessary for a correct execution of the tests. The tanks can be emptied out by means of a valve located under it. On the portion of the circuit located before the testing section there is a manually operated vertical gate which makes it possible to vary the height of the hydraulic load.
A series of park-away threaded holes along the bottom of the channel, spaced 250 mm apart, makes it possible to fit the models, and another series of through holes provides a passage between the interior and the exterior of the channel, for the determination of pressures.
The end part of the channel accommodates an adjustable weir type gate for diversified filling. This gate is controlled through a manual lifting system. A valve located between the electrically operated pump and the feed tank makes it possible to adjust water flow-rate.
A trolley (Instrument carriage) carrying the accessories and the instruments necessary for the tests slides along cylinder-shaped guide rails located along the sides of the channel. Access to the trolley on the part of the operator is by means of a mobile platform supplied as standard with the channel. The mobile platform is strong enough for people standing up on it.
The control and monitoring board is located on a supporting frame. The board houses the controls for the pump, the geared motor and the main switch. Along the channel and on the board we find 3 emergency buttons that cut off the electrical power supply.

Range of Experiments
- Study of uniform flow in inclined channel, verification of Chezy equation and determination of Chezy Coefficient and Mannings Friction Factor
- Study of flow under a sluice gate (undershot weir) with application of Specific Energy and Momentum Functions. Observation of the flow under an undershot weir Observation of hydraulic motion on discharge. Observations on the movement of upper rollers. Relationship between dam height and discharge.
- Hydraulic jump -determination of energy head and power loss at the jump section by means of specific energy considerations.
- Study of V-notch, rectangular notch weirs. Discharge on an overflow weir Measurement of flows over weirs.
- Pitot-static pressure measurement of flow.
- Dam Spillway with modular dispensing attachments. Observation of flow forms. Observation of the throw of the water. Generation of different flow states by damming the down-stream water. Measurement of the upstream and downstream water levels with different dissipation structures for a constant flow rate. Measurement of the flow velocity of the water in the super-critical region with. the aid of the Pitot Static Tube. Observation of the throw range of the water with the ski jump dissipation structure
- Study of Ski Jump, Piers and Pegs, Gravel Box and Stop Log.
- Study of flow over a Crump weir Flow over an underwater weir
- Study of long base weir and calibration of broad crested weir Determination of the coefficient of overflow Complete and incomplete overflow Comparison of the surface lines for the two cases. Burble on a sharp-edged, wide-crested weir
- Ogee (Overflow) weir with built in manometer bank illustrating pressure changes over the weir
- Calibration of sharp crested, thin plate overshot weirs. Occurrence of separation on a sharp edged weir
- Study of flow through a Trapezoidal flume to demonstrating the flow rate characteristics.
- Study of round edge and sharp or square edge bridge piers. Influence of pillars on the flow behavior in open flumes. Flow behavior at pillars. Influence of pillar shape on the flow behavior Measurement of the pillar damming effect
- Study of Venturi Flume, observation of flow through a throated Flume, calibration of the Flume when used as a flow measuring instrument. Investigation of flow and supercritical flow states

Features
1. A complete range of investigations into Pelton & Francis turbine characteristics
2. Allows students to measure load, head, flow and speed during operation.
3. Transparent window enables to see turbine operation.
4. Band brake assembly and spring balance provide direct measurement of torque
5. Quick and easy to set up and run.

Description
FM10 Multi Turbine test set comprises a hydraulic bench, Pelton turbine assembly and Francis turbine assembly. Both turbines are to be placed alternatively on the hydraulic bench for testing.

At the inlet of both turbines a bourdon tube pressure gauge which measures the turbine inlet head in installed. Speed of the turbine is measured by an optical tachometer (hand held with digital display).

Water is pumped from the tank to the turbine inlet via a variable area flowmeter (Rotameter) and a hand valve is used to regulate the flow/turbine inlet head.

The spent water exhausted from the turbine is discharged back to the tank and a tank drain valve is provided. The power generated is absorbed by a band brake system and measured by two 0-10N spring force balances.

Frands Turbine (Reaction)
The turbine case has a transparent observation window through which the student can see the gUide vane mechanism in operation. The flow of water to the turbine runner is controlled by a ring mechanism which operates gUide vanes, the relative position of which determines the amount of water passing to the runner. In addition to the plexiglass end cover of the turbine case, the turbine discharge draft tube is also made of transparent plastic.
Pelton Turbine (Impulse)
Pelton Turbine (Impulse)
The turbine case has a transparent observation window through which the student can see the impinged jet action on pelton wheel. The flow of water to the turbine runner is controlled by an adjustable spear valve on the turbine inlet which varies the diameter of the jet from nozzle.

Range of Experiments (Pelton)
Range of experiments
A Full range of investigations into Pelton characteristics, including:
- Head / quantity (nozzle discharge) curves
- Head / quantity (power output) curves
- Spear / nozzle relationships
- Isoefficiency curves
- Torque measurement

Range of experiments (Francis)
A Full range of investigations into Francis characteristics,
including:
- Head/quantity (power output) curves
- lsoefficiency curves
- Guide vane/entry gate relationship
- Torque measurement

Description
The system comprises 2 components that are connected together for the experiments. A fan draws air through a section of pipe. The air flow rate can be measured with various measuring inserts such as a nozzle/orifice, Pitot tube or Venturi. Measuring glands are also fitted to the pipe section at evenly spaced intervals; these can be used for determining pipe friction, pressure losses or velocity profiles. Open jet experiments can be performed at the fan outlet.

Experiments
1. Measurement of air flow rate with a nozzle/orifice
2. Measurement of air flow rate with a Pitot tube
3. Measurement of air flow rate with a venturi
4. Measurement of air flow rate with an iris diaphragm
5. Measurement of pressure loss in the straight section of pipe
6. Measurements of pressure loss in pipe bends
7. Determination of pipe friction
8. Velocity profile in a pipe through which air is flowing
9. Velocity profile in an open jet
10. Characteristic curves of centrifugal fan

Features
1. Visualize the cavitation phenomena
2. Comparison of start cavitation pressure of theory and experiment
3. Demonstration of Bernoulli equation in incompressible flow

Description
Cavitation Apparatus is self-contained and external water supply and drain are not required. It is trolley mounted. A high contraction ratio transparent venturi is made to visualize the cavition. The pressure at throat can be changed by varying the flow rate. The flow rate is measured by a rotameter. The inlet pressure, throat pressure and exit pressure of venturi are measured. Water temperature is also measured.

Range of Experiments
1. Visualize the cavitaion by adjusting the flow rate.
2. Start of cavitation pressure to be compared with theoretical values
3. Verification of Bernoulli equation in incompressible flow.

Features
1. Fluid Friction Measurement in Pipes and Pipe Fittings
2. PID control of fluid flow rate
3. Computerized data acquisition
4. Theoretical and experimental results comparison on the application software

Description
In this apparatus we will investigate head loss (pressure drop) due to friction in constant-area sections of pipe. This will be accomplished by flowing water through pipes of various diameters over a range of water flow rates and recording the change in pressure. The apparatus is designed to allow the detailed study of the fluid friction head losses (pressure losses) which occur when an incompressible fluid flows through pipes, bends, valves and pipe flow metering devices. The unit is floor stand to study the friction losses on smooth bore pipes of various diameters and a roughened pipe. In addition to the study of losses in straight pipes, a wide range of accessories are also provided including 90. bend, 180. bend, elbow and T, 45. elbow, contraction and enlargement, inline strainer and various valves.
The investigation on friction head losses (pressure loss) in various straight pipes can be done over a range of Reynolds numbers from 103 to nearly 105, covering the laminar, transitional and turbulent flow regimes in smooth pipe. A roughened pipe is supplied which, at the higher Reynolds number, shows a clear departure from the typical smooth bore pipe characteristics.

For each size of test pipe, a short sample is provided loose so that students will be able to measure the exact diameter and visualize the nature of the internal finish. The ratio of the pipe diameter to distance of the pressure tapping from the ends of each pipe has been selected to minimize end entry effects. Isolating valves are provided so that the pipe to be tested can be selected without disconnecting or draining the system. The flow rate controlled is carried out by the PID control of motor speed by the variable frequency drive.
In addition to the smooth and roughened pipes, a wide range of pipeline components are fitted, including pipe fittings and control valves, allowing investigation of the losses caused by this type of connection. A clear acrylic section of pipeline houses a Venturi meter and an orifice plate assembly, so that these can be investigated as flow measurement devices. The measurement of flow velocity by pitot tube is also housed in the clear acrylic section of pipe line. The unit can be used with a range of instrumentation packages including a computer data logging pack.


Range of Experiments
1. Laminar to turbulent flow regimes in-pipes
2. Variation in friction factor of pipe pressure loss with respect to Reynolds number
3. Energy losses in pipe fittings and bends
4. Flow measurement using venturi meter
5. Flow measurement using orifice plate
6. Measurement of flow velocity using pitot tube
7. Real time data acquisition and display on computer

Introduction
The centrifugal pump is the machine most commonly used to move liquids from one place to another.
Centrifugal pumps are often used together to enhance either the flow rate or the delivery pressure beyond that available from the single pump.
The unit is designed to demonstrate the operational advantages of parallel or series operation, depending on the required duty.

Description
Two motor driven centrifugal pumps, mounted on an Aluminum Profile Frame Plinth with a water reservoir and pipework for continuous circulation. The pumps can be configured for single pump operation, two pumps in parallel or two pumps in series by using manually operated ball valves. Similarly, manual valves are used to control the flow and facilitate the study of suction effects, including demonstration of air release. The Series/Parallel Pump Demonstration Unit (Model FM14A) enables students to measure the pump characteristic curves for centrifugal pumps. The introduction of a second pump to the system allows the study of two pump performances, both in series and parallel operation. The unit is maintenance.free due to its robust construction. As a result of its clear layout, the unit is suitable for demonstrations and for student experiments.
This accessory comprises a fixed speed pump assembly with interconnecting pipe works. It is installed with necessary pressure gauges and flow meter for pump performance study. This unit is mounted on a support plinth which can be use in stand alone operation. The pipe work and water tank are made of clear acrylic for maximum visibility.

EXPERIMENTAL CAPABILITIES
1. Pump characteristic curves for centrifugal pumps
2. Series and parallel operation of pumps
3. Determination of the capacity of pumps
4. Single pump operation
5. Determination of pump efficiency

ADDITIONAL EXPERIMENTAL CAPABILITIES
measurement of power and overall efficiency at different speed.

Features
- single pump test or two pumps in series or parallel tests
- input electrical power measurements
- electronic instrumentations

Description
The FM14 Series and parallel pumps unit facilitates the measurement of pump curves in various operating modes. The unit comprises 2 centrifugal pumps that are connected together via a system of pipes. Shut off valves permit the pumps to be operated in series or in parallel. Electronic sensors provide relevant pressures of the pumped medium, and the flow rate of water are measured values. The flow rate of the pumps can be adjusted using variable-speed.
Each pump motor is controlled by its own electronic drive. These enable pump speed to be varied independently. Proximity transducers measure pump speeds. Speed and power input (current and voltage) of both pumps are displayed digitally.

Range of Experiments
1. Characteristic of centrifugal pumps
2. The study of flow of water at pump total head at different constant speeds (centrifugal pump curves)
- On the operation of one pump
- When both pumps operated in series
- When both pumps operated in parallel
3. Determination of pump capacity
4. Non-dimensional performance characteristics

Features
- Propagation of shock waves at sonic velocity in water
- Mechanical and electronic pressure measurement

Description
The apparatus is made up of a coil of copper pipe 60 m long, supplied with mains water and fitted with a solenoid valve at the discharge end. An electronic pressure transducer near to the valve measures the pressure fluctuations in the pipe when the solenoid valve shuts. A bypass valve discharges to waste at the inlet end of the pipe. A second adjustable valve is at the discharge from the pipe, downstream of the solenoid valve. This regulates the mean pressure in the pipe before the solenoid valve shuts.

A Bourdon pressure gauge fitted between the solenoid valve and the downstream control valve shows the pressure in the system. To make the pressure characteristic visible, an oscilloscope can be connected. The reflection time and closing time of the solenoid valve can be read on the oscilloscope. The oscilloscope is not included in the apparatus.

Range of Experiments
1. Investigation of water hammer and pressure waves in pipes
- Calculation of the speed of sound
- Determination of reflection time
- Depiction of pressure characteristics
2. Water hammer as a function of the flow rate
3. Water hammer against volumetric flow rate characteristic curve
4. Display of pressure oscillations on an oscilloscope

Features
- Measurement of nozzle thrust
- Relationship of nozzle pressure, back pressure and critical pressure ratio
- Demonstration of choking effect
- Determination of nozzle efficiency

Description
The critical pressure ratio and the efficiency of nozzles can be determined using this apparatus. It is possible to insert various nozzles or a baffle plate into the force measurement device. Different forces can be determined using the different insert. The distance between nozzle and baffle plate is adjustable. The nozzle air inlet pressure is adjusted using a pressure regulator. The back pressure is set with a needle valve at the flow meter. The following data are measured: airflow rate of air, air temperature, pressure at inlet and outlet of the nozzle and force.

Range of Experiments
- Critical pressure ratio
- Demonstration of choking effect
- Nozzle thrust
- Nozzle efficiency

Introduction
The centrifugal pump is the machine most commonly used to move liquids from one place to another. As such it is a particularly instructive unit with which to introduce students to the whole subject of rotodynamic fluid machines.

Description
A motor driven centrifugal pump, mounted on an aluminium profile plinth with a water reservoir and pipework for continuous circulation. The pump volute and the water reservoir are manufactured from clear acrylic for maximum visibility. Similarly the pipe runs are made from transparent pvc. Manually operated valves at the pump inlet and outlet allow control of the flow and also facilitate the study of suction effects.

The pump volute has been designed so that the impeller can be easily accessed and replaced without tools. The FM17A is delivered with two impellers, one with forward curved blades and one with backward curved blades, allowing the students to investigate the effects of impeller characteristics. Electronic sensors measure the pump inlet pressure, the pump outlet pressure, and the flow rate.

The pump speed is accurately controlled by an advanced electronic inverter inside the FM17IF interface box. This inverter also calculates the torque produced at the motor drive shaft, allowing the power used by the pump to be derived. The FM17IF interface box also provides the conditioning electronics for the sensors and allows their readings to be displayed on the computer software. Connections to the FM17IF box are connectors for the sensors and a connector for the pump motor drive.

The equipment is provided with advanced data logging and control software.

Experimental Capabilities
1. Demonstration of a single-stage centrifugal water pump in operation
2. Measurement of constant-speed pump performance, including production of characteristic curves:
- pump total head
- motor input power
- impeller speed
- overall total efficiency
3. Introduction to pump speed laws
4. Investigation of impeller styles
5. Comparison of student calculations

FM17IF Interface Box
The interface between the FM17 pump unit and the user’s computer running CAPTURE AK1 software is provided by the FM17IF Interface device. This conditions the raw data from the sensors, digitises the data and transfers it to the computer using the USB interface. It also includes a sophisticated 3 phase inverter for providing accurate motor speed control under software control.

Feature
1. A complete range of investigations into Francis turbine characteristics
2. Study performance of hydroelectric system including transient performance on electrical load changes.
3. Allows students to measure load, head, flow and speed of turbine during operation.
4. Allows students to measure electrical power output of hydroelectric system during operation.
5. Transparent circular window enables to see turbine operation.
6. Automatic Data Acquisition and graphic display
7. Quick and easy to set up and run.

Description
FM18 Francis Turbine Hydroelectric test set comprises a turbine test set base, Francis turbine and electric generator assembly. The water is fed to the turbine by means of centrifugal pump, radially to the runner. The circular window of the turbine casing is provided with a transparent acrylic sheet for observation of flow on the runner. A draught tube is fitted on the outlet of the turbine. The assembly is complete with guide mechanism which is position adjusted by the servo system to keep the speed of turbine constant at set value for various loads.

Pressure and vacuum gauges are fitted at the inlet and outlet of turbine to measure the total supply head on the turbine. Pressure transducers are also installed for automatic data acquisition. Speed of the turbine is measured by an optical sensor.

Water is pumped from the tank to the turbine inlet via a flowmeter and a hand valve is used to regulate the flow/turbine inlet head. The spent water exhausted from the turbine is discharged back to the tank through draught tube and a tank drain valve is provided. The electric power generated is measured by power meter and torque is measured by a load cell.

Range of experiments
A full range of investigations into Francis Turbine Hydroelectric system characteristics, including:
Head/quantity (guide vane discharge) curves
Head/quantity (power output) curves
Isoefficiency curves
Torque measurement
Specific Speed
Overall efficiency for different electrical loads
Transient performance of the hydroelectric system using Francis Turbine

Features
1. Two-stage compressor with intercooler
2. Electronic data acquisition

Description
The unit provides all necessary data for recording the compressor characteristic and to depict the compression process on a p-V diagram. The pressures and temperatures for both stages are recorded using electronic sensors and indicated on LCD digital displays. The air throughput and the electrical power consumption are also measured. The unit is equipped with safety devices such as pressure relief valves and pressure switches.

Experiments
1. Function of a 2-stage compressor
2. Determination of the intake airflow rate, theory and experiment
3. Pressures and temperatures at stages of compression, compression index
4. Analysis of compression process on a p-V diagram
5. Determination of the efficiency

Features
Investigate the force generated by a jet striking plates (representing turbine vanes)

Description
The impact of jet apparatus shows students the force produced by a jet of water as it strikes a flat plate or hemispherical cup. They can compare this to the change of momentum in the jet. To extend the range of investigations, the 120 degree conical plate and 30 degree angle plate are available separately.

The equipment comprises a transparent cylinder containing a vertically tapered nozzle and a test plate. The nozzle produces a high-velocity jet of water which hits the test plate. The test plate connects a weigh beam assembly with jockey weight which measures the jet force.

The water supply and flow rate measurement is provided by the FM22 Hydraulics Bench.

Experiments
1. Investigation of jet impact forces
2. Influence of quantity and velocity of flow rate
3. nfluence of deflection angles

Features
- Both free and forced vortices possible
- Vortices are clearly visible from all angles
- Quantitative analysis of vortices obtainable

Description
When water flows out of a vessel through a central hole in the base, a free vortex is formed, the degree of rotation being dependent on initial disturbance. The water moves spirally towards the centre with streamline motion, so that, neglecting losses caused by viscosity, the energy per unit mass remains constant. If, while the mass of water is rotating, the central exit hole is plugged, the flow of water in the vertical plane ceases and the motion becomes one of simple rotation in the horizontal plane, and is known as a Free Cylindrical Vortex.

FM 21 Free and Forced Vortex Apparatus for the study of the shape of 'free and forced vortices' consists of a 300 mm diameter cylindrical, transparent vessel 300 mm depth, having two pairs of diametrically opposed inlet tubes of 9.0 mm and 12.5 mm diameter.

The 12.5 mm diameter inlet tubes which are angled at 15? to the diameter, so that a swirling motion is imparted to the liquid entering the vessel, are used as entry tubes for the free vortex experiment. A smooth outlet is centrally positioned in the base of the vessel and a set of push-in orifices of 24, 16, 12 and 8 mm diameter is supplied to reduce the outlet diameter to a suitable value.

The profile of the vortex formed at the top of the vessel is determined by a gauge, housed on a diametrically mounted bridge piece, which measures the diameter of the vortex at various depths. This gives the co-ordinate points required to plot the vortex profile.

The forced vortex is created in the vessel described above by using as the inlet the 9 mm bore tubes which are angled at 60? to the diameter. The input water from these tubes impinges on a simple two blade paddle which acts as a stirrer/flow straightener. The water 'leaves' the vessel via the 12.5 mm diameter angled tubes which are used as the 'entry' tubes for the free vortex experiment. The two bladed paddle rotates on a vertical shaft supported by a bushed plug, in the hole used as the outlet for the free vortex experiment. The forced vortex is induced by this paddle The profile of the forced vortex is determined using a series of depth gauges.

Velocity at any point in the free or forced vortices may be measured using the appropriate pitot tubes supplied. A software is provided for results calculation and analysis. A diagram of the module is shown and the user enters the measured values into the relevant positions on the diagram. Results can be displayed graphically, with full control over the displayed graphs, scaling, axes.


Experiments
1. Experiment to plot the shape of a free vortex by measurement of the surface profile co-ordinates, and thus verify that vr = constant where v is the speed and r is the radius of the vortex
2. Experiment to plot the surface profiles of various forced vortices formed under different speed conditions
3. Verification of the formula h=w? r?/2g for forced vortices where h is the height of the surface of the water above the datum point, w is the vortex angular velocity and r is the vortex radius.

Features
FM22 Hydraulics Bench and its comprehensive range of optional accessories have been developed to instruct students in the many different aspects of hydraulic theory.

Description
This unit is designed as a portable and self-contained service module for the range of accessories.

All the wetted parts of bench is constructed from glass reinforced corrosion resistant plastic and is mounted on wheels for mobility. The bench top incorporates an open channel to support the accessory on test. Volumetric measurement is integral and has been chosen in preference to other methods of flow measurement for its ease of use, accuracy and safety in use.

The volumetric measuring tank is stepped to accommodate low or high flow rates. A stilling baffle reduces turbulence and a remote sight tube with scale gives an instantaneous indication of water level. A measuring cylinder is included in the supply for measurement of very small flow rates. Opening the dump valve returns the measured volume of water to the sump in the base of the bench for recycling. An overflow in the volumetric tank avoids flooding. Water is drawn from the sump tank by a centrifugal pump and a panel mounted control valve regulates the flow.

Features
Experimental set-up for investigating and verifying the Bernoulli’s Theorem

Description
The entire experimental set-up is clearly laid out on a metal panel, this is fitted to the FM22 Hydraulics Bench. The bench provides the water supply and flow rate measurement for carrying out the experiment. The experimental set-up comprises a measurement section with a venturi tube, the associated pipework. Eleven measurement connections on the venturi tube enable the static pressure along the pipe through which the water is flowing to be indicated on a multiple tube manometer. Included is hand-pump to adjust the datum of the manometer. The flow rate is determined using the volumetric tank or rotameter on the bench.

Experiments
1. Demonstration of Bernoulli’s law
2. Display of the pressure characteristic using the venturi tube
3. Determination of the flow rate factor

Features
For conducting experiments on the complete static head distribution along a venturi tube
Experimental set-up for investigating and verifying the Bernoulli’s Theorem

Description
The entire experimental set-up is clearly laid out on a metal panel, this is fitted to tFM22 Hydraulics Bench. The bench provides the water supply and flow rate measurement for carrying out the experiment. The experimental set-up comprises a measurement section with a venturi tube, the associated pipework. Eleven measurement connections on the venturi tube enable the static pressure along the pipe through which the water is flowing to be indicated on a multiple tube manometer. Included is hand-pump to adjust the datum of the manometer. The flow rate is determined using the volumetric tank or rotameter on the bench.

Experiments
1. Demonstration of Bernoulli’s law, experimental results comparison with theoretical
2. Display of the pressure characteristic along the venturi tube
3. Determination of the flow rate factor (meter coefficient) at various flow rates

Features
- includes three different bends
- direct comparison of fluid friction losses

Description
The unit is used for the investigation of pressure losses in bends and fittings, as well as in sudden contraction and sudden expansion. The measured section consists of a pipe system with different bends and fittings, a sudden contraction and expansion. The flow rate can be adjusted using the ball-valve. A 10 tubes manometer are used to determine individual differential pressures. Included is hand-pump to adjust the datum of the manometer. The water supply and flow rate measurement is provided by the FM22 Hydraulics Bench.

Experiments
1. Investigation of the pressure losses at bends and fittings
2. Comparison of different bends and fittings
3. Determination of a valve characteristic curve