Bifurcation phenomena in the flow through a sudden expansion in a circular pipe

ORAL

Abstract

We report the results of an experimental investigation of laminar and time-dependent flows through a sudden expansion in a circular pipe. The flow state was investigated using high resolution MRI imaging techniques which have allowed us to settle a long standing debate on the first instability that occurs. As \textit{Re} is increased, the flow passes through a steady symmetry breaking bifurcation such that the position of the recirculating eddy becomes asymmetric within the pipe. This in turn gives way to simple periodic motion via a Hopf bifurcation with further increase in \textit{Re}.

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Authors

  • James Seddon

    • Manchester Centre for Nonlinear Dynamics, University of Manchester, UK.

  • Tom Mullin

    • University of Manchester
    • Manchester Centre for Nonlinear Dynamics, University of Manchester, UK.

  • Mick Mantle

    • Magnetic Resonance Research Centre, University of Cambridge, UK.

  • Andy Sederman

    • Magnetic Resonance Research Centre, University of Cambridge, UK.