Abstract
A hydrodynamic model of thin, laminar, gravity-driven, wavy-film flow over a vertical plate was considered. To make advantage of the cyclic boundary conditions and due to the nature of the wavy flow, a solution based on a Fourier series was implemented. Two representative cases of practical importance were studied; Re = 25, Re = 100. This range of Reynolds numbers is of the most practical importance in the process industry. Multiple solutions were obtained. Most of these solutions are mathematically correct but physically are not. It is observed that realistic wave profiles are always obtained once we approach the Froude number corresponding to thin film.
Highlights
Thin films flowing down vertical surfaces have been extensively studied because of their common occurrence in a variety of engineering applications
It is observed that realistic wave profiles are always obtained once we approach the Froude number corresponding to thin film
The gravity effect on the falling film is expressed in terms of the Froude number, while the fluid flow rate is expressed in terms of the film Reynolds number
Summary
Thin films flowing down vertical surfaces have been extensively studied because of their common occurrence in a variety of engineering applications. The transport properties typical of thin-film flows are especially suited to applications in industrial process equipment. Gravity is the driving force which creates the film flow and gives rise to the term “falling film”. In addition to the gravity force, the falling film is acted upon by an opposing shear force between the film and the solid surface and by a second shear force caused by the difference in viscosity of the fluid and the gases at the interface. The gravity effect on the falling film is expressed in terms of the Froude number, while the fluid flow rate is expressed in terms of the film Reynolds number
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
