Obsorne Reynolds Demonstration Apparatus Vertical Tube Type (SMT-FM-09A)
This apparatus is designed to visually demonstrate the transition between laminar and turbulent flow in a pipe, using injected dye to clearly reveal the streamlines and help determine the critical Reynolds number. It serves as a foundational tool for observing and understanding flow regimes, which is essential for studying fluid dynamics and the factors influencing flow behavior.
The unit features a transparent pipe section with a flow-optimized inlet and a layer of glass beads in the water tank to ensure even, low-turbulence flow. A valve allows precise adjustment of the water flow rate, while ink is injected into the stream to colorfully visualize the flow patterns. This setup enables direct observation of smooth, orderly laminar flow at lower velocities and the chaotic motion of turbulent flow as velocity increases, with the Reynolds number calculated from the flow conditions to quantify the transition.
Its primary application is in educational settings for teaching fluid mechanics principles, providing a clear and engaging way to illustrate abstract concepts like Reynolds number and flow stability. The key benefit is its ability to offer immediate visual feedback, helping students grasp the practical significance of flow regimes in engineering applications such as pipe design, aerodynamics, and hydraulic systems. The simplicity and effectiveness of the demonstration make it a valuable tool for reinforcing theoretical knowledge through experimental observation.