Effect of an oscillating time-dependent pressure gradient on Dean flow: transient solution

Abstract

Abstract Background Navier-Stokes and continuity equations are utilized to simulate fully developed laminar Dean flow with an oscillating time-dependent pressure gradient. These equations are solved analytically with the appropriate boundary and initial conditions in terms of Laplace domain and inverted to time domain using a numerical inversion technique known as Riemann-Sum Approximation (RSA). The flow is assumed to be triggered by the applied circumferential pressure gradient (azimuthal pressure gradient) and the oscillating time-dependent pressure gradient. The influence of the various flow parameters on the flow formation are depicted graphically. Comparisons with previously established result has been made as a limit case when the frequency of the oscillation is taken as 0 (ω = 0). Results It was revealed that maintaining the frequency of oscillation, the velocity and skin frictions can be made increasing functions of time. An increasing frequency of the oscillating time-dependent pressure gradient and relatively a small amount of time is desirable for a decreasing velocity and skin frictions. The fluid vorticity decreases with further distance towards the outer cylinder as time passes. Conclusion Findings confirm that increasing the frequency of oscillation weakens the fluid velocity and the drag on both walls of the cylinders.