Chapter Two: Ideal Flow

Theory
2.1 Introduction

2.2 Derivation of Continuity Equation

2.3 Streamline, stream function and velocity potential

2.4 Rotation, Circulation and Vorticity

2.5 Some Basic, Plane Potential Flows

2.5.1 Uniform Flow

2.5.2 Sink and Source

2.5.3 Vortex

2.6 Superposition of Basic, Plane Potential Flows

2.6.1 Source in Uniform Flow

2.6.2 Doublet

2.6.3 Rankine Ovals

2.6.4 Flow around a Cylinder

2.6.5 Flow around a rotating Cylinder

2.1 Introduction

This chapter begins with the coordinate transformation from Cartesian to cylindrical

coordinate system. Cartesian coordinate system always deals with x, y and z axis while r, ,

and z axis for cylindrical coordinate.

v
vr
r
x
vz

Figure 2.1 Velocity components representation in cylindrical coordinate

By referring to Figure 2.1, r represents the distance in radial direction from an origin to point

P and is the degree measured from x-axis. Velocity components in all directions are shown

in the figure. The correlations between these two coordinate systems are as follow

x = r cos
y = r sin
r = x2 + y2 (2.1)
y
= tan 1
x

These two coordinate systems share the same z-axis.

2.2 Derivation of Continuity Equation

The continuity equation can be derived based on the principle of conservation of mass.

Conservation of mass states that the net mass flow rate into an element is equal to the rate of

accumulation of mass in the element

v + v y
y
y

y
uy x u + u x
x

vx

Figure 2.2 Mass flow rate in x- and y- direction

By referring to Figure 2.2, the mass flow rate into the element in x- and y-direction is given as

uy + vx (2.2)

The mass flow out from the element in x- and y-direction is given as

( u ) (v )
u + x y + v + y x (2.3)
x y

While the rate of accumulation of mass in the element is given as

xy (2.4)
t

Therefore, the net mass flow rate into the element is (Eq. (2.2) Eq. (2.3))

( u ) (v )
xy xy (2.5)
x y

and therefore from the principle of conservation of mass

 ( u ) (v )
xy xy = (xy ) (2.6)
x y t

This gives

(xy ) + (u ) xy + (v ) xy = 0 (2.7)
t x y

or

(u ) (v )
+ + =0 (2.8)
t x y

Equation (2.8) is well-known as the Continuity Equation.

For the case of incompressible flow where the density is assumed constant, Eq. (2.8) reduces

to

u v
+ =0 (2.9)
x y

Next, we derive the continuity equation in cylindrical coordinate system. Consider a small

element in cylindrical coordinate system with mass flow in and out form the elements

surface as shown in Figure 2.3.

(r+r)
ur + ur

u + u r
r

r. ur

ur

Figure 2.3 Mass flow rate in r- and -direction

The mass flow rate into the element in r- and -direction is given as

u r r + u r (2.10)

The mass flow out from the element in r- and -direction is given as

( u r ) (u )
u r + r (r + r ) + u + r (2.11)
r

The rate of accumulation of mass in the element is given as

rr (2.12)
t

Therefore, the net mass flow rate into the element is (Eq. (2.11) Eq. (2.10))

( u r ) ( u )
u r r rr r (2.13)
r

and therefore

( u r ) ( u )
u r r rr r = rr (2.14)
r t

By dividing over rr gives

u r (u r ) 1 (u )
+ + + =0 (2.15)
t r r r

For an incompressible flow, Eq. (2.15) reduces to

u r u r 1 u
+ + =0 (2.16)
r r r

Question

1 Determine whether the continuity equation is satisfied.

a) u = 2 x , v = 2 y

b) u = xy + y 2 t , v = xy + x 2 t

c) u = 3x 2 y 2 , v = 2xy3
Solution

Given (a) u = 2 x , v = 2 y

u
Now =2
x

v
= 2
y

u v
+ = 22=0
x y

Hence the continuity equation is satisfied (Ans)

Given (b) u = xy + y 2 t , v = xy + x 2 t

u
Now =y
x

v
=x
y

u v
+ = y+x
x y

Hence the continuity equation is not satisfied (Ans)

Given (c) u = 3 x 2 y 2 , v = 2 xy 3

u
Now = 6xy 2
x

v
= 6xy 2
y

u v
+ = 6 xy 2 6 xy 2 = 0
x y

Hence the continuity equation is satisfied (Ans)

2 In a two dimensional incompressible flow, the velocity component in x-direction is

u = 2 xy 2 xy . Determine the y component of velocity distribution such that the continuity

equation is satisfied.

Solution

Given u = 2 xy 2 xy

The continuity equation for an incompressible flow is given as

u v
+ =0 (i)
x y

From the given velocity component;

u
= 2 y2 y
x

Substitute into Eq. (i), we get

v
2y2 y + =0
y

or

v
= y 2 y2
y

Integrating with respect to y, we get

y2 2 y3
v= + C (Ans)
2 3

2.3 Streamline, stream function and velocity potential

Streamline is a line that always tangent to the flow velocity vector. From Figure 2.4, it can be

seen that

u dx
= (2.17)
v dy

which indicates the slope at any points along the streamline is given by
dy v
= (2.18)
dx u

Velocity vector

Streamline

Figure 2.4 Streamlines and vector plot

Since the flow is always tangential to the streamline, there will be no flow (or fluid particles)

cross the streamline. Streamlines are often used to represent the flow characteristics such as

the flow direction, flow velocity, etc (See Figure 2.5)

Streamline
( = constant )
V

Figure 2.5 Streamlines plots

Stream function is defined as a scalar function of space and time, such that its spatial

derivative with respect to any direction gives the velocity component at right angles to this

direction. It is denote by (psi). In two dimensional space, the stream function can be related

to the velocity components as follow


u= and v = (2.19)
y x

and for cylindrical coordinate system, they are

ur = and u = (2.20)
r r

The main property of the stream function is that its value is constant along the same

streamline.

For an irrotational flow, the velocity gradient can also be expressed in term of velocity

potential, (phi). The velocity potential is defined as a scalar function of space and time

such that its derivative with respect to any direction gives the fluid velocity in that direction,

or mathematically

u= ,v =
x y
(2.21)

ur = , u =
r r

The combination of series of streamline and equipotential lines can be used to express simple

two-dimensional flow as shown in Figure 2.6. The obtained grid is often known as the flow

net.

V V1 > V2

V V1

V2

Streamline
( = constant )

Figure 2.6 Flownet

Similar to the case of stream function, the value of velocity potential is the same at every

points on the same line (equipotential).

Let two lines, line of constant streamline and line of constant velocity potential intersect at a

point in the flow field.

On a line of constant streamline, = 0 and therefore

= dx + dy = 0 (2.22)
x y

Divide with dx to get

dy
+ =0 (2.23)
x y dx

and the gradient is obtained as

= ( v ) =
dy v
= x (2.24)
dx u u
y

On a line of constant velocity potential, = 0 and therefore

= dx + dy = 0 (2.25)
x y

Divide with dx to get

dy
+ =0 (2.26)
x y dx

and the gradient is obtained as

dy
= x = u (2.27)
dx v
y

Now the product of the gradient of these two lines

v u
= 1 (2.28)
u v

This indicates that these two lines are orthogonal at all points of intersection.

2.4 Rotation, Circulation and Vorticity

Consider a fluid particle with velocity variation as shown in Figure 2.7. In a short time

interval t , the line segment OA and OB will rotate with the angles and .

( u
y
y t
(
u
u+ y
y
B B B'

y y

v A'
u v+
v
x
x
A
( v
x (
x t

O x A O x

(a) (b)

Figure 2.7 Angular forces on a particle

The angular velocity of line segment OA, OA is

OA = lim (2.29)
t 0 t

For a small angle

tan =
(v x )xt v
= t (2.30)
x x

Therefore

v
OA = (2.31)
x

in counterclockwise direction. Similarly, the angular velocity for the line segment OB is

u
OB = (2.32)
y
in clockwise direction. The average of the angular velocities OA and OB defines the rotation

z about the z axis. If the counterclockwise is considered to be positive, then

1 v u
z = (2.33)
2 x y

Rotation about the other two coordinate axes can be obtained in similar manner and results in

1 w v
x = (2.34)
2 y z

and

1 u w
y = (2.35)
2 z x

The three components of angular velocity can be combined to give the rotation vector as

follow
r
= xi + y j + zk (2.36)

r
The vosticity, is defined as the twice of the rotation vector
r r
= 2 (2.37)

For two dimensional case, we only consider the rotation about z-axis and therefore the

vorticity is expressed as

r r v u
= 2 z = (2.38)
x y

In the term of stream function, the vorticity becomes

r 2 2
= 2 + 2 (2.39)
x y

For the case of irrotational flow, we can see that the value of vorticity becomes zero as
r
=0 (2.40)
or

v u
=0 (2.41)
x y

Circulation, is defined as the line integral of the tangential velocity about a closed path, or

mathematically

= V cos ds (2.42)

where V is the velocity in the flow field at element ds and is the angle between V and

tangent to the path at that point. Circulation around a rectangular fluid element shown in

Figure 2.8 can be written as follow

v u
= ux + v + x y u + y x vy =
x y
(2.43)
v u
xy
x y

u
u+ y
y
B C

y
v
v+
v
x
x

u
A
O
x

Figure 2.8 Circulation around a rectangular fluid element

The vorticity also can be defined as the circulation per unit of enclosed area as follow

v u
xy
r x y v u
= = = (2.44)
A xy x y

The vorticity in cylindrical coordinate system is expressed as

 r u u 1 u r
= + (2.45)
r r r

By the way, circulation around a circular shape of element shown in Figure 2.9 can be written

as follow

= r 2r (2.46)

Then, the vorticity can be written as

r 2r 2
= = = 2 (2.47)
A r 2

Again for an irrotational flow, the following relationship between and is hold

u= = and v = = (2.48a)
y x x y

ur = = and u = = (2.48b)
r r r r

Eq. (2.48) is frequently known as the Cauchy-Riemann equation.

Question

1. The stream function for an incompressible , two-dimensional flow field is

= x 2 + 2x + 4 y 2

Determine the corresponding u and v

Solution

The stream function is expressed as

u= and v = , then
y x

u = 8 y and v = 2 x 2 (Ans)

2. The stream function for an incompressible, two-dimensional flow field is

 = 3x 2 y y 3

Prove that the flow field is irrotational. Then determine the velocity potential of the flow

field.

Solution

The vorticity is expressed as

r 2 2
= 2 + 2 , since
x y

2
= 6 xy and = 6y
x x 2

2
= 3x 2 3 y 2 and = 6 y then
y y 2

r 2 2
= 2 + 2 = (6 y 6 y ) = 0
x y

Hence the flow field is irrotational. (Ans)

Given = 3x 2 y y 3 then

u= = 3x 2 3 y 2 and v = = 6 xy
y x

The velocity potential is expressed as

= u then = x 3 3xy 2 + f1 ( y )
x

Where f1 ( y ) is arbitrary function of y and

= v then = 3xy 2 + f 2 ( x )
y

f 2 (x ) is arbitrary function of x. In order to satisfy both expressions, the velocity potential is

expressed as
 = x 3 3xy 2 + C (Ans)

where C is constant of integration.

3. The velocity components in an incompressible , two dimensional flow are

u = x 4 y , v = y 4x

Determine the stream function and velocity potential of this flow field.

Solution

From the definition of stream function

u= and v = , then
y x

= xy 2 y 2 + f1 (x ) and = xy + 2 x 2 + f 2 ( y )

The final expression for stream function is

= xy + 2 x 2 2 y 2 + C (Ans)

From the definition of velocity potential

u= and v = , then
x y

x2 y2
= 4 xy + f1 ( y ) and = 4 xy + f 2 ( x )
2 2

In order to satisfy both expressions, the final expression for velocity potential is

x2 y2
= 4 xy + C (Ans)
2 2

where C is constant of integration

4. Determine the stream function for the following velocity potential

= y + x2 y2

Solution
From the definition of velocity potential, the velocity components in x and y directions are

u= = 2 x and v = = 1 2 y
x y

but u = and v =
y x

Then

= 2 xy + f1 ( x ) and = 2 xy x + f 2 ( y )

In order to satisfy both expressions, the final expression for stream function is

= 2 xy x + C (Ans)

5. The stream function for an incompressible, two-dimensional flow field is

= 9 + 6 x 4 y + 7 xy

Determine the corresponding velocity potential

Solution

From the definition of stream function, the velocity components in x and y directions are

u= = 4 + 7 x and v = = (6 + 7 y )
y x

but u = and v =
x y

Then

7 2 7
= 4 x + x + f1 ( y ) and = 6 y y 2 + f 2 ( x )
2 2

In order to satisfy both expressions, the final expression for velocity potential is

7 7
= 4 x 6 y + x 2 y 2 + C (Ans)
2 2

6. Show that the following flow field with stream function

 = x + 2x 2 2 y 2

is an irrotational flow. Determine the velocity potential for this flow field.

Solution

The vorticity is expressed as

r 2 2
= 2 + 2 , since
x y

2
= 1 + 4 x and =4
x x 2

2
= 4 y and = 4 then
y y 2

r 2 2
= 2 + 2 = (4 4) = 0
x y

Hence the flow field is irrotational. (Ans)

From the definition of stream function, the velocity components in x and y directions are

u= = 4 y and v = = (1+ 4 x )
y x

but u = and v =
x y

Then

= 4 xy + f1 ( y ) and = y 4 xy + f 2 (x )

In order to satisfy both expressions, the final expression for velocity potential is

= y 4 xy + C (Ans)

7. If the velocity field is given by u = 16 y 8 x and v = 8 y 7 x , find the circulation

around the closed curve defined by x = 5 , y = 3 , x = 9 , y = 9 .

Solution
Refer to Figure Q7

x=9
x=4
D C

y=9

A B
y=3

Figure Q7 Circulation around a rectangular fluid element

ABCD =
ABCD
(udx + vdy ) = (udx + vdy ) + (udx + vdy ) + (udx + vdy ) + (udx + vdy )
AB BC CD DA

9 9 5 3
= (16 y 8 x )dx + (8 y 7 x )dy + (16 y 8 x )dx + (8 y 7 x )dy
5 3 9 9

[
= 16 yx 4 x ] + [4 y
2 9
5
2
] [
9
7 xy 3 + 16 yx 4 x ] + [4 y
2 5
9
2
]3
7 xy 9
(i) (ii) (iii) (iv)

In integral (i): y = 3

In integral (ii): x = 9

In integral (iii): y = 9

In integral (iv): x = 5

[ ] [ ]
ABCD = 16 3 9 4 9 2 16 3 5 4 5 2 +
[4 9 7 9 9] [4 3 7 9 3]+
2 2

[16 9 5 4 5 ] [16 9 9 4 9 ]+
2 2

[4 3 7 5 3] [4 9 7 5 9]
2 2

= [432 324] [240 100] + [324 567 ] [36 189] +

[720 100] [1296 324] + [39 105] [324 315]
= 108 140 243 + 153 + 620 972 66 9 = 549
Area of the curve ABCD = (9 5) (9 3) = 24

549
circulation per unit area = = 22.875
24

8. Velocity components of a fluid flow are given by

a a
u = 1 + 2 sin , u r = 1 2 cos
r r

Examine whether these velocity components represent a physically possible two-dimensional

flow. Determine whether the flow is rotational or irrotational.

Solution

The continuity equation for an incompressible flow is given by

u r u r 1 u
+ + =0
r r r

u r a 2a
Now = 1 2 cos = 3 cos
r r r r

u a a
And = 1 + 2 sin = 1 + 2 cos
r r

Substituting these values into the continuity equation, we get

1 a 2a 1 a
1 2 cos + 3 cos + 1 + 2 cos
r r r r r
1 a 2a 1 a
= cos 3 cos + 3 cos cos 3 cos = 0
r r r r r

Since the continuity equation is satisfied, these velocity components are physically possible

(Ans).

The vorticity is given by

r u u 1 u r
= +
r r r
 u a 2a
Now = 1 + 2 sin = 3 sin
r r r r

u r a a
And = 1 2 cos = 1 2 sin
r r

Substituting these values into the vorticity equation, we get

r 2a 1 a 1 a
= sin + 1 + 2 sin 1 2 sin
r3 r r r r
2a sin a sin a
= 3
sin 3 sin + 3 sin = 0
r r r r r

1 a 2a 1 a
1 cos + 3 cos + 1 + 2 cos
r r 2 r r r
1 a 2a 1 a
= cos 3 cos + 3 cos cos 3 cos = 0
r r r r r

Hence the flow is irrotational (Ans)

9. The velocity potential function for a flow is

= x(2 y 1) . At a point (2,3) determine

a) The velocity

b) The value of stream function

Solution

The velocity components in x and y directions are

u= = 2 y 1
x

v= = 2x
y

Resultant velocity V = u 2 + v 2 = (2 y 1)2 + (2 x )2

At point (2,3), V = (2 3 1)2 + (2 2)2 = 55 + 4 2 = 55 + 4 2 = 41

= 6.403 Units (Ans)


For stream function, since u = and v = then
y x

= y 2 y + f1 (x ) and = x 2 + f 2 ( y )

In order to satisfy both expressions, the final expression for stream function is

= y 2 x 2 y + C where C is constant of integration

For = 0 at the origin, the constant C = 0.

= y 2 x 2 y

At point (2,3), = 32 2 2 3 = 2 Units (Ans)

10. The velocity potential function for an incompressible, two dimensional flow is

expressed as

= x2 y 2

a) Determine the velocity components

b) Show that the velocity components satisfy the continuity equation and irrotational

c) Determine the stream function and the flowrate between the streamlines (2,0) and

(2,2)

d) Show that the streamlines and potential lines intersect orthogonally at the point (2,2)

Solution

The velocity components in x and y directions are

u= = 2 x (Ans)
x

v= = 2 y (Ans)
y

The continuity equation for an incompressible flow is given by

u v
+ =0
x y
 u
Now =2
x

v
and = 2
y

Substituting these values into the continuity equation, we get

22 =0

Therefore the continuity equation is satisfied (Ans)

The vorticity is expressed as

r v u
=
x y

v
Now =0
x

v
and =0
y

Substituting these values into the vorticity equation, we get

r
=0

Therefore the flow is irrotational. (Ans)

For stream function, since u = and v = then
y x

= 2 xy + f1 ( x ) and = 2 xy + f 2 ( y )

In order to satisfy both expressions, the final expression for stream function is

= 2 xy + C where C is constant of integration

For = 0 at the origin, the constant C = 0.

= 2 xy

Now (2,0) = 2 2 0 = 0

And (2,2) = 2 2 2 = 8

Hence the flow between the streamlines through (2,0) and (2,2)
 = 8 0 = 8 m3/s (Ans).

Slope of streamline

dy v 2y 2 2
= = = = 1
dx =const u 2x 22

Slope of velocity potential

dy u 2x 2 2
= = = =1
dx =const v ( 2 y ) 2 2

dy dy
= 1 1 = 1 which show that the streamlines and potential lines
=const dx =const
dx

intersect orthogonally (Ans)

2.5 Some Basic, Plane Potential Flows

2.5.1 Uniform Flow

Uniform flow is the simplest flow. Its streamlines are straight and parallel to each other, and

its magnitude of velocity is constant. Example is shown in Figure 2.9 where

u = U and v = 0 (2.49)

Figure 2.9 Horizontal uniform flow

In terms of stream function, these are


U= and =0 (2.50)
y x

and therefore

= Uy (2.51)

In terms of velocity potential

U= and =0 (2.52)
x y

and becomes

= Ux (2.53)

Let us consider a more general uniform flow with an angle of with the x-axis as shown in

Figure 2.10.

Figure 2.10 Uniform flow

For this case

u = U cos (2.54)

and

v = U sin (2.55)

Since

= dx + dy = vdx + udy (2.56)
x y
or

= U sin dx + U cos dy (2.57)

and therefore

= Uy cos Ux sin = U ( y cos x sin ) (2.58)

In terms of velocity potential

= dx + dy = udx + vdy (2.59)
x y

or

= U cos dx + U sin dy (2.60)

and therefore

= Ux cos + Uy sin = U ( x cos + y sin ) (2.61)

2.5.2 Sink and Source

Another basic potential flow is a source flow, a flow radially outward from a line through the

origin as shown in Figure 2.11. If m is the volume flow rate per unit length, then

2r (u r ) = m (2.62)

or

m
ur = (2.63)
2r

For this source flow, the tangential velocity is zero, u = 0 , then the stream function can be

obtained as

1 m
ur = = and u = =0 (2.64)
r 2r r

This yields

m
= (2.65)
2
In term of velocity potential

m 1
ur = = and u = =0 (2.66)
r 2r r

This yields

m
= ln r (2.67)
2

If m is negative, the flow is radially inward to the origin and the flow is considered sink flow.

= constant = constant

vr
r

x

Figure 2.11 Source flow

2.5.3 Vortex

There is no radial component of velocity for vortex flow u r = 0 .Vortex flow can be classified

into two types based on their characteristics

i) Forced vortex

As the fluid element moves along the circular path, it would sticks similarly in the flow fields

as shown in Figure 2.12. The tangential velocity component is usually given as

u = Kr where K is the vortex strength

Since

u = = Kr (2.68)
r

Then

Kr 2
= (2.69)
2

Since this type of vortex is rotational flow, this flow cannot be described with a velocity

potential.

y
= constant

= constant

Figure 2.12 Force vortex

ii) Free Vortex

If we stick the fluid element in the flow path, one of the sticks would follow the circular path

of the fluid and the other stick is skewed as demonstrated in Figure 2.13. As a result, the

angular velocity becomes zero and irrotational flow.

 Figure 2.13 Free vortex

The flow velocity is often given as

K
u = (2.70)
r

where K is the vortex strength

Since

K
u = = (2.71)
r r

Then

= K ln r (2.72)

and also

K
u = = (2.73)
r r

Then

= K (2.74)

Question

A tornado can be approximated by a free vortex of strength as shown in figure Q below.

Velocity measurement at point A and B indicate that VA = 30m/s and VB = 20m/s. Determine

the distance from point B to the center of the tornado.

 VA
VB

A B

30 m

Figure Q Tornado

Solution

For a free vortex

K
u =
r

Thus at rA , u = 30 m/s, then K = 30rA

At rB , u = 20 m/s, then K = 20rB

Therefore K = 30rA = 20rB

Since rB rA = 30 , we can see that

30(rB 30 ) = 20rB

Finally, we get rB = 90 m (Ans)

2.6 Superposition of Basic, Plane Potential Flows

The method of solving problem arises from the combination of various basic stream

functions is called the method of superposition. This method is useful where the streamline
can be considered as a solid boundary since no fluid particle is allowed to cross the

streamline. This combination of streamlines yields to a formation of interesting body shape

and can be used to describe the flow characteristic around that shape.

2.6.1 Source in Uniform Flow

Consider a superposition of a source located at the origin and uniform flow from left to right

as shown in Figure. 2.14.

U Stagnation point

S
Combined

Linear flow Source Half-body Rankine

Figure 2.14 Source in uniform flow

The resulting stream function can be written as

m
= Ur sin + (2.75)
2

The flow velocity from the source is

m
ur = (2.76)
2r

This flow velocity becomes weaker and weaker as it flows away from the origin and will just

cancel due to the uniform flow when they are with the same magnitude of velocity and

opposite direction.

The point where the flow velocity is zero in the flow field is known as stagnation point, S.

This results in the formation of flow structure as demonstrated in Figure 2.15 which is usually

known as half body since the body is open at the downstream.

 U Stagnation point

S
Combined

Linear flow Source Half-body Rankine

Figure 2.15 Half body rankine

As discussed earlier, at the stagnation point, the flow velocity is zero and therefore

ur = = 0 and u = =0 (2.77)
r r

From Eq. (2.75) we obtain

U sin = 0 gives = (2.78)

and

m
U cos + =0 (2.79)
2r

When =

Then

m
rs = (2.80)
2U

Here, the value of rs indicates the distance of stagnation form the origin and therefore the

m
,
coordinate for the stagnation point is 2U .

The value of stream function that cross the stagnation point can be obtained by evaluating

which yield
 m
stagnation = (2.81)
2

We also can formulate the equation of streamline that pass through the stagnation point since

m
= rsU (2.82)
2

Then

rsU = Ur sin + rsU (2.83)

or

rs ( )
r= (2.84)
sin

The thickness of this half body can be obtained by taking

y = r sin = rs ( ) (2.85)

and when 0 the thickness becomes

y = rs (2.86)

Finally, the velocity component anywhere in the flowfield can be obtained as follow

m
u r = U cos + (2.87)
2r

and

u = = U sin
r

(2.88)

Therefore

2
m
v = u + u = U cos + + [ U sin ]
2 2 2 2
(2.89)
2r
r

This gives
 2
m m
v = U cos + 2(U cos )
2 2 2
+ + U sin
2 2
(2.90)
2r 2r

or

rs rs
2
2
v = U 1 + 2 cos +
2
(2.91)
r r

2.6.2 Doublet

Next we combine the sink and source flow with equal strength as shown in Figure 2.16.

Source Sink

Combined

y P (r, )

= 1 2
Source
Sink

r
x
2 1
x
B O 1 A
y

Figure 2.16 Source and sink

Then the combined stream function for this pair can be written as

m
= (1 2 ) (2.92)
2

From the figure, we know that

 y y
tan 1 = and tan 2 = (2.93)
xa x+a

Trigonometric rule indicates that

tan 1 tan 2
tan (1 2 ) = (2.94)
1 + tan 1 tan 2

Therefore

y y

tan(1 2 ) = x a x + a (2.95)
y y
1+
xa x+a

Gives

2 ya
tan (1 2 ) = (2.96)
y + x2 a2
2

Eq. (2.96) can be rearranged so that it can be written as follow

2 2 ya
tan = tan (1 2 ) = 2 (2.97)
m y + x2 a2

Then

m 2 ya
= tan 1 2
2
(2.98)
2 y + x a
2

or in cylindrical coordinate system, Eq. (2.98) can be expressed as follow

m 2ar sin
= tan 1 2 2
(2.99)
2 r a

The so called doublet is formed when source and sink approach to each other (a 0)

and yields

m 2ar sin mar sin

= =
2 r a
2 2
r 2 a2 ( ) (2.100)

( )
By letting m so that the product of ma remains constant and r r 2 a 2 1 r yields

K sin
= (2.101)
r
where K equals to ma , is often called the strength of the doublet.

2.6.3 Rankine Ovals

As previously discussed in proceeding section, the open half body can be obtained by

superposition of source and uniform flow. In this section the closed body which is known as

the Rankine Ovals can be produced by superposition of uniform flow with sink and source as

shown in Figure 2.17.

=0

Stagnation point Stagnation point

Source Sink

Figure 2.17 Rankine oval

The stream function of this combination is

m m
= Ur sin 1 + 2 (2.102)
2 2

From Figure 2.17, we know that

y y
tan 1 = and tan 2 = (2.103)
xa x+a

And therefore, Eq. (2.102) can be rewritten as

m y m y
= Uy tan 1 + tan 1 (2.104)
2 x a 2 x+a
The resultant streamline for the combination of these three fundamental flows is

demonstrated in Figure 2.18.

U
r2 r r1

1
2
x
Source Sink
a a

Figure 2.18 Source and sink in uniform flow

The coordinate of the stagnation points in Figure 2.18 can be calculated from the zero

velocity condition at these points, therefore

m xa m x+a
u= =U +
2
=0
2
(2.105)
y 2 (x a ) + y 2 (x + a ) + y
2 2

Since the stagnation points are located on the x-axis, therefore y = 0 and

1 1 2
= U (2.106)
(x a ) (x + a ) m
or

ma
x2 = a2 (2.107)
U

or

ma
x= a2 (2.108)
U

As a result, the coordinate for the stagnation points are

ma
a 2 ,0 (2.109)
U

2.6.4 Flow around a Cylinder

As discussed in the previous sections, the so called doublet is formed when we combine sink

and source and both of them are located at the same position. In this section, we will combine

the doublet and the uniform flow to resemble a flow over a cylinder as shown in Figure 2.19.

Figure 2.19 Flow around a cylinder

The combination of stream function can be written as

K sin
= + Ur sin (2.110)
r

or

K
= Ur sin (2.111)
r

If we consider that the streamline that pass through the stagnation point is a constant value

K
Ur sin = 0 (2.112)
r

or

K
r2 = (2.113)
U

Then we obtain
 K
r= (2.114)
U

The value of r in Eq. (2.114) indicates the distance of stagnation point from the origin. Since

r is not related to , therefore streamline that pass through the stagnation points is in constant

distance of r regardless the values of . This indicates that this streamline forms a shape of

circular cylinder with its center is located at the origin.

Now, let consider that the doublet is a circular cylinder with a radius of a , then form Eq.

(2.114)

K = Ua 2 (2.115)

Substitute into the combination of streamline equation gives

Ua 2
= Ur sin (2.116)
r

or

a
2

= 1 Ur sin (2.117)
r

The velocity component at any points in the flow field can be calculated as follow

a
2

ur = = 1 U cos (2.118)
r r

and

a 2
u = = 1 + U sin (2.119)
r r

The magnitude of velocity on the cylinder surface can be calculated by taking r = a yields

u r = 0 and uS = 2U sin (2.120)


Here we can see that the maximum velocity on the surface is uS = 2U when = and
2

3
= as shown in Figure 2.20.
2

=0 2U

x
a

Figure 2.20 Velocity field on cylinder surface

Pressure distribution on the cylinder surface can be determined from the Bernoulli equation.

We take a point far from the cylinder where the pressure is p0 and the flow velocity is U and

1 1
p0 + U 2 = pS + u2S (2.121)
2 2

Here pS is the surface pressure. Since the surface velocity is obtained as uS = 2U sin ,

then the surface pressure can be expressed as

1
(
pS = p0 + U 2 1 4 sin 2
2
) (2.122)

In term of dimensionless form, the pressure on the cylinder surface can be written as follow

pS p0
1
(
= 1 4 sin 2 ) (2.123)
U 2

2
At the stagnation point where = 0 and = , we obtain the maximum value of

dimensionless pressure,

pS p0
=1 (2.124)
1
U 2

At the top and bottom of the cylinder where = 2 and = 3 2 , we have minimum value

of dimensionless pressure as

pS p0
= 3 (2.125)
1
U 2

The location of dimensionless zero pressure can be obtained when

pS p0
1
( )
= 1 4 sin 2 = 0 (2.126)
U 2
2

and we obtained = 30,150,210 and 330.

The sketch of dimensionless pressure distribution is shown in Figure 2.21. As can be seen

from the figure, since we have a symmetric pressure distribution, we can expect that the

resultant force (per unit length) in x and y-direction is zero. This is expected since no

presence of viscosity for the ideal flow.

 Cp = -3.0

jjj

Negative Cp

U
p - po
Cp =
Vo2 2

Cp = +1

Figure 2.21 Pressure distributions around cylinder

The zero x and y resultant forces can be proved mathematically as follow;

From Figure 2.22, the x direction of force can be written as

2
Fx = ps cosad (2.127)
0

Substituting formulation for pressure on the cylinder surface gives

2 1
(
Fx = p0 + U 2 1 4 sin 2 cosad)
0
2
(2.128)
2 a 2 2
= ap0 cosd + U 2 cosd 2aU 2 sin 2 cosd
0 2 0 0

2
2 2 sin 3
Since cosd = [sin ] = 0 and
2
sin cosd = =0
2
0
0 0
3 0

Then finally

Fx = 0 indicates that the drag force on the cylinder is zero.

While the y-component of force can be expressed as

 2
Fy = ps sin ad (2.129)
0

Substituting formulation for pressure on the cylinder surface gives

2 1
( )

Fy = p0 + U 2 1 4 sin 2 sin ad
0
2
(2.130)
2 a 2 2
= ap0 sin d + U 2 sin d 2aU 2 sin 3 cosd
0 2 0 0

2
cos
2
Since sin d = [ cos ] = 0 and
2
0
2
sin d =
3
( )
sin 2 + 2 = 0
0 0
3 0

Then finally

Fy = 0 indicates that the lift force on the cylinder is zero.

ps

Fy d

x
Fx
a

Figure 2.22 Drag and lift forces on cylinder

2.6.5 Flow around a rotating Cylinder

The condition of flow over a rotating cylinder can be obtained by the method of superposition

among uniform flow, a doublet and a free vortex as shown in Figure 2.23.
 y

x
aa

Figure 2.23 Flow around rotating cylinder

In this case

a2
= Ur1 sin
2
ln r (2.130)
r 2

where is the circulation. The velocity components for the system are derived as

1 a2
ur = = U 1 2 cos
r r (2.131)

and

a2
u = = U 1 + 2 sin +
r r 2r
(2.132)

On the cylinder surface, or when we set r = a, these velocity components become

ur = 0 u = = 2U sin +
r 2a
and (2.133)

The stagnation point on the cylinder surface can be determined when

u = 0 or 2U sin + =0 (2.134)
2a

Then we obtain sin = . Here, we can see that a number of interesting streamline
4Ua

pattern can be developed depending on the vortex strength . For example, if there is no
circulation, = 0 then, sin = 0 and therefore, the stagnation points are located at = 0 0 and

180 0 as shown in Figure 2.24a.

If 0 < < 4Ua then 0 < sin < 1 , This results in two stagnation points located in the first

and second quadrant as shown in Figure 2.24b.

If = 4Ua then sin = 1 , This results in one stagnation point located at = 180 0 as shown

in Figure 2.24c.

Lastly, If > 4Ua then sin > 1 . Since sin cannot be greater than unity, the only reason

we can consider is that our previous assumption of the location of stagnation point on the

surface of the cylinder is not valid. Therefore, for this case, we predict the stagnation point is

located outside the cylinder surface as shown in Figure 2.24d.

S S
S S

=0
<1
4Ua
(a) (b)

S
S

=1
4Ua 4Ua
>1

(c) (d)

Figure 2.24 Stagnation points on rotating cylinder

Next, we can derive the expression for the lift force on the rotating cylinder. This can be done

if the pressure distribution of the cylinder surface is known. To derive the expression for

pressure, consider a point far from the cylinder where the pressure is p0 and the flow

velocity is U and

1 1
p0 + U 2 = pS + u2S (2.135)
2 2

Here pS is the surface pressure. Since the surface velocity is obtained as

uS = 2U sin + , then the surface pressure can be expressed as
2a

1
2
2

pS = p0 + U 1 4 sin
2
sin (2.136)
2 Ua 2Ua

Then the lift force per unit length can be calculated as follow

2
FL = ps sin ad =
0

2

1
2 (2.137)
p0 + U 2 1 4 sin 2 sin sin a d
Ua 2Ua
2
0

2 2

sin d = sin d = 0 then

3
Since
0 0

2
2 1 2 U sin 2
FL = U sin 2 d = = U (2.138)
0
2 U 2 4 0

Here we can see that the value of lift force depends on the density of the fluid, flow velocity

and the strength of the vortex. This theorem is known as the Kutta-Joukowski Theorem.

The drag force on the rotating cylinder can be determined as follow;

Take the normal component of force to the flow direction as

 2
FD = ps cos ad =
0

2 1
2
2
p0 + U 1 4 sin
2
sin cos a d
0
2 Ua 2Ua

2
2 2 sin 3
cos d = [sin ]0 = 0 and
2
Since
0
0
sin 2 cosd =
3 0
=0 (2.139)

Question

1. A circular cylinder 3m in diameter and 20m long is rotating at 180 rpm in counter-clock

wise about its axis. Wind flowing at 12m/s over the cylinder in the negative x-direction. By

assuming 92 percent efficiency in developing circulation from the rotation, determine the lift

force and the location of the stagnation point. The air density is 1.2 kg/m3. Sketch the flow

lines clearly.

Solution

Given D = 3m, L = 20m, U = 12m/s and N = 180rpm

2N
= = 18.85 rad/s
60

The circulation is calculated as

= r 2r = 18 .85 1.5 2 1.5 = 266 .52 92 %

= 245 .17 m2/s

The lift force per unit length is given as

FL = U

Therefore, the total lift force on 20m long of cylinder is

FL = 1.2 12 245.17 20

= 70.6 kN (Ans)

The stagnation point on the cylinder surface can be determined when


u = 0 or 2U sin + =0
2a

245.17
Then we get, sin = = = 1.08
4Ua 4 12 1.5

Since sin cannot be greater than 1.0, the only reason we can consider is that our previous

assumption of the location of stagnation point on the surface of the cylinder is not valid.

Therefore, for this case, we predict the stagnation point is located outside the cylinder

surface. (Ans)

The flow lines can be sketched as follow

2. A cylinder of radius a = 1m, rotates at N =100 revolutions per minute is placed in a

uniform air flow with U = 10m/s. Taking air density as = 1.2kg/m3. Determine:

(i) The magnitude of the circulation formed,

(ii) The positions of the stagnation points in the flow field, and

(iii) If we were interested to have a single stagnation point attached on the cylinder

surface, at what speed should be cylinder be rotated?

Solution

Given a = 1m, N =100rpm, U = 10m/s, = 1.2kg/m3

2N
= = 10.47 rad/s
60

The circulation is calculated as

= r 2r = 10.47 1.0 2 1.0

= 65.8 m2/s (Ans)

 The stagnation point(s) is considered located on the cylinder surface and

65.8
sin = = = 0.5236
4Ua 125.66

Hence, = 31.560 rad/s. Hence there are two stagnation points located on the cylinder surface

as shown in Figure
S S
S S

= 0
< 1
4Ua
(a) (b)

S
S

= 1
4Ua 4Ua
> 1

(c) (d)

In order to have a single stagnation point on a cylinder surface,

sin = = = 1.0
4Ua 125.66

Therefore

2N
= r 2r = r 2r = 125.66
60

and N = 191 rpm (Ans)

3. A source with the strength of 2.8 m2/s located at origin is combined with a uniform flow

field with free stream velocity of 1.6 m/s. The uniform flow is in positive x-direction.

i. Draw the combined flow field pattern.

ii. Determine:

1. Equation of the stream function for the combined flow field.

2. Radial velocity and tangential velocity of the combined body.

3. Coordinate of the stagnation point

4. Maximum width (ymax) of the combined body

5. Resultant velocity at P(3.2,750)

Solution

U Stagnation point

S
Combined

Linear flow Source Half-body Rankine

Figure Combination of source and uniform flow

The combination of stream function is written as

m
= Ur sin + (Ans)
2

Radial and tangential velocity components are calculated as

1 m
ur = = U cos + and u = = U sin (Ans)
r 2r r

At the stagnation point, the flow velocity is zero and therefore

ur = = 0 and u = =0
r r

or

U sin = 0 gives =

and

m
U cos + =0
2r

m 2.8
When = , r = rs = = = 0.278 m
2U 2 1.6

Coordinate of stagnation point (0.278, ) (Ans)

The half-width of combined body is calculated as

y = rs ( )

and when 0 , the maximum half-width is obtained as

y = rs = 0.278 = 0.875 m

Then maximum width of the combined body is

0.875 2 = 1.75 m (Ans)

The resultant velocity is calculated as follow

2
m
V = u r2 + u2 = U cos + + [ U sin ]
2

2r
2
m m
= U 2 cos 2 + 2(U cos ) + + U sin
2 2

2r 2r
rs rs
2

= U 1 + 2 cos +
2
r r

Substitute all the values into the equation, we get

0.278 0.278
2

V = 1. 6 2 1 + 2 cos 75 + = 1.64 m/s

3 . 2 3 . 2