A new model for granular porous media: Part II. Numerical solution of steady state incompressible Newtonian flow through periodically constricted tubes

Abstract

Abstract A numerical method for the solution of the problem of steady state, incompressible Newtonian flow through periodically constricted tubes is developed. All terms of the Navier‐Stokes equation are retained, including the nonlinear inertia terms. Sample calculations for a uniform periodically constricted tube, the geometry of which is connected with the modeling of a packed bed of sand are given, including streamlines, axial and radial velocity profiles, pressure profiles, and the dimensionless pressure drop versus Reynolds number relation. The effect of some geometric characteristics of periodically constricted tubes on their friction factor is investigated numerically, and comparison of some existing experimental data with calculated ones is made.