Classroom opportunities for pipe flow simulations

A first course in fluid mechanics introduces many types of flow: laminar and turbulent; open-channel and pipe; steady state and transient. The associated theory and concepts are often complicated by the inability to demonstrate the results or to show the effects of varying parameters in the classroom setting. An educational design tool, Fluid Flow Construction Set, was developed to simulate steady state and transient pipe flow and to enable students to explore the physical response when changing pipe design parameters. The simulations explore the relationships between various elements of a fluid system, such as the pipe material, pipe diameter, fluid viscosity, pump head, elbows and valves. Using a graphic interface, the software allows users to design and test pipe flow scenarios. Flow meters and gages can be placed along the pipe for data collection. The software was developed for, and introduced to, an introductory engineering class to help them develop a conceptual understanding of the relationships between various elements in a pipe flow system. This paper describes the software, Fluid Flow Construction Set, and illustrates, by example, how the software could be used in various undergraduate engineering courses that include a fluid mechanics component.