Flow of Non-Newtonian Fluids through Packed Beds — Lesson 1

This lesson covers the complex topic of Transport Phenomena of Non-Newtonian Fluids, focusing on the flow of these fluids through packed beds. It begins with a recap of the basic concepts of pressure drop calculations and the applications of Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluids. The lesson then delves into the intricacies of fluid flow in packed beds, discussing the geometry of the bed, the frictional pressure drop, and the importance of understanding the characteristics of the bed at a macroscopic level. It also explains the concept of porous media and its classification into consolidated and unconsolidated porous media. The lesson concludes with a detailed explanation of how to calculate the frictional pressure drop for a packed bed using various parameters and equations.

Video Highlights

02:21 - Explanation of the concept of enhanced oil recovery using non-Newtonian polymer solutions
14:14 - Discussion on the calculation of frictional pressure drop for flow through packed beds
31:55 - Discussion on the calculation of pressure drop in streamline flow of power-law and Bingham plastic fluids through packed beds
45:00 - Explanation of an example problem on estimating the frictional pressure drop for a power-law fluid flowing through a packed bed

Key Takeaways

• Understanding the flow of Non-Newtonian Fluids through packed beds is crucial in many industrial applications.
• The geometry of the bed and the characteristics of the fluid play a significant role in determining the frictional pressure drop.
• Porous media can be classified into consolidated and unconsolidated porous media, each with its unique characteristics and applications.
• Calculating the frictional pressure drop for a packed bed involves understanding and applying various parameters and equations.