Non-Newtonian Pipe Friction Studies with Various Dilute Polymer Water Solutions

This study extends existing data on the frictional drag reducing influence of long-chain polymers in dilute water solutions. Studies were conducted with both fresh and sea water in capillary tubes and pipes with a size range of 100 diameters and covering the laminar, transition, and turbulent regimes with N↑Re up to 8 x 105. Fifteen types of test additives were used, including Polyhall, Polyox, Westco Guar, and fish slime. Test temperatures ranged from 40° to 85° F. Dilute solutions ranging down to 10 ppm concentration exhibited remarkable friction reductions at high shear rates as a near-laminar type of flow. Data correlation was hampered by diameter, temperature, and concentration effects not resolved by existing flow parameters based on power law theory. Shear degradation effects were evaluated.David Taylor Model Basi