The drag on oscillating flat plates in liquids at low Reynolds numbers

Abstract

An experimental investigation was conducted to describe the fluid flow about oscillating flat plates and to determine the magnitude and nature of forces acting on the plates at low Reynolds numbers. In the experiment, the Reynolds number was varied from 1·01 to 1057·0; three period parameters, 1·57, 2·07 and 4·71, were applied; two fluids, water and SAE 30 motor oil, and three flat plates of various sizes with or without end plates were used. The analysis of data resulted in graphical presentation of the relationships among the drag coefficient, the Reynolds number and period parameter. The drag coefficient becomes less dependent on the Reynolds number for values greater than 250. The relationship between the drag coefficient and period parameter is pronounced throughout the entire range of the Reynolds number tested.