Simplified Modelling of Inclined Turbulent Dense Jets

• Main Authors: Ilias G. Papakonstantis, George C. Christodoulou
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2020-11-01
• Series: Fluids
• Subjects: inclined dense jets; negatively buoyant jets; turbulent jets; jet trajectory; dilution; desalination brines
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/2311-5521/5/4/204

An analytical approximation to the entire centerline trajectory of inclined round dense jets in dimensionless form is proposed, in terms of a fourth degree polynomial. The coefficients of the polynomial for a certain inclination angle can be easily obtained if the position of the maximum height and the return point are known. Experimental data of the authors are used to determine these coefficients for six inclination angles between 35° and 75°. The resulting trajectories are then compared to data of other investigators and found to be in good agreement. The variation of the polynomial coefficients with inclination angle is also studied. The proposed analytical expression allows for a straightforward computation of the trajectory length for any inclination angle in the range studied. It is found that the longest trajectory occurs for the 60° angle. The relation between the computed length and the measured minimum (centerline) dilutions at the location of maximum height and at the return point is examined. Finally, the laws governing the variation of the minimum dilution with the axial distance from the source are explored and similarities with the laws of simple jets and plumes are discussed.