A flow facility for the characterization of pulsatile flows

In this paper a new flow facility for studies of pulsating flows is described. The pulsating flow is generated by means of a rotating valve and the flow is quantified through a newly developed flow measurement module accurately measuring the phase averaged flow distribution. The measuring probe of the module consists of a hot/cold-wire pair that enables both the mass flux and recovery temperature to be measured simultaneously. Calibrations of both the hot and cold wire are done in-situ in steady flow by means of a Pitot tube and a thermocouple. Moreover, the phase averaged flow distribution can be obtained by an automatic traverse of the measuring probe across the pipe cross section in both the radial and azimuthal directions. In the paper we exemplify and describe the flow properties, using the new flow measurement module, both in steady and pulsating flow.

► Unique flow rig to study pulsatile flows relevant for internal combustion engines is presented.
► Rig consists of flow measurement module with automated traversing system.
► Time resolved mass flux and temperature measured via hot- and cold-wire anemometry.
► Rig provides unique experimental data for validation of numerical simulations.