Identifier

102

Date

2017

Document Type

Honors Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering

Major

Mechanical Engineering

Committee Member

John Hochstein

Committee Member

Jeffrey Marchetta

Abstract

Current research at the University of Memphis involves the design of a machine that utilizes an inlet and diffuser to capture hydrokinetic energy from open-channel flow. The objective of this research is to use CFD software to optimize the design of the machine through a study of the diffuser's influence on kinetic energy flowrate. The hypothesis is that a diffuser with a constant pressure gradient in the direction of the flow reduces separation in the diffuser. Smoothing various parts of the geometry at areas of high-pressure gradients promotes a steady return of the flow into the free stream. Initial studies featured variations in angle and curvature at the entrance and exit of the diffuser by the addition of a smoothed entrance and kicker. Further research produced an equation relating diffuser-area to pressure gradient in the mean flow direction that was used to design a curved diffuser.

Comments

Undergraduate Honor's Thesis

Library Comment

Honors thesis originally submitted to the Local University of Memphis Honor’s Thesis Repository.

Notes

Data is provided by the student.

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