A Stratified Flow Channel, A New Research Tool

A large flow channel capable of both homogeneous and two-layer stratified flow has been constructed at Scripps Institution of Oceanography. It was developed primarily to enhance the understanding of areas of fluid mechanics crucial to many ocean processes and studies, such as internal wave and shear flow interaction, mixing processes, stratified flow around bodies, granular fluid mechanics, and current meter development and calibration. This paper is a description of the channel and its typical research uses. The channel has a 1.12 meter square flow cross section (free surface) and a working test section length of 16 m with glass on both sides for photographic and optical instrument access. Two-layer stratified flow is made possible by the use of separate return lines and variable speed propeller pumps. Flow velocities can be varied from zero to 1.3 m/s. The working section can tilt to a inclination. All important test parameters are monitored and controlled by a 6809 based microcomputer system.