Experimental investigation of low reynolds number flows of liquid‐liquid jets

Abstract

AbstractThe shapes of liquid jets issuing from tubes into a second immiscible liquid are examined experimentally. Previous theoretical work is seen to be based on boundary layer theory and therefore not applicable to low Reynolds number jets as presented here. However, these works have provided insight into dimensionless parameters which could be important in governing this process. The experimental data is presented in the form of these dimensionless groups so that their significance can be explored.The results clearly show that the dispersed phase Reynolds number and the viscosity ratio of the two liquid jets are the most important parameters affecting jet shape. Non‐Newtonian elasticity is seen to contribute to jet expansion but not as much as in the case of inviscid jet swelling. The continuous phase is seen to have a component of velocity far from the jet surface unlike the assumption used in boundary layer theory.The boundary layer theory of Schlichting was extended to predict jet shapes for a viscosity ratio of one. It is seen that the theory does not apply within 15 dimensionless distances from the tube exit. Accurate predictions will require more precise evaluation of the equations of motion.