Free Vortex Apparatus

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The Free Vortex Apparatus is a critical experimental setup used in fluid mechanics laboratories to study the formation, behavior, and characteristics of a free vortex. Free vortices occur naturally in fluids when rotation is initiated without any external torque, such as water swirling in a bathtub or a whirlpool in a river. Understanding free vortex phenomena is crucial for students and engineers working in hydraulic systems, turbines, and fluid flow analysis.

This apparatus allows learners to observe vortex formation, velocity distribution, and pressure variations in a controlled environment. Trusted suppliers like scilabex.com and Scilabstore provide high-quality Free Vortex Apparatus with PAN India delivery and international shipping, making it ideal for academic and research institutions worldwide.

What is Free Vortex?

A free vortex is a type of vortex where the fluid rotates naturally around a vertical axis without external torque. In a free vortex:

• The angular momentum remains constant

• The tangential velocity of fluid varies inversely with the radius ($v \propto \frac{1}{r}$)

• The pressure at the center decreases as fluid approaches the axis

Free vortices are commonly observed in nature, such as:

• Whirlpool in rivers or drains

• Tornadoes

• Cyclones

• Swirling water in sinks

Principle of Free Vortex Apparatus

The Free Vortex Apparatus works on the principle of conservation of angular momentum and Bernoulli’s theorem. As the fluid moves closer to the center of rotation:

• Velocity increases due to the conservation of angular momentum

• Pressure decreases as per Bernoulli’s principle

• This creates a characteristic vortex shape

Mathematically, for a free vortex:

$$v \cdot r = \text{constant} \quad \text{and} \quad P + \frac{1}{2} \rho v^2 + \rho g h = \text{constant}$$

Where:

• $v$ = Tangential velocity

• $r$ = Radius from vortex center

• $P$ = Pressure

• $\rho$ = Fluid density

• $g$ = Acceleration due to gravity

• $h$ = Height of fluid

Construction of Free Vortex Apparatus

The Free Vortex Apparatus typically includes the following components:

1. Transparent Cylindrical Tank – Allows clear observation of vortex formation

2. Rotating Paddle or Stirrer – Initiates rotation in the fluid

3. Water Supply System – Provides consistent water level

4. Scale and Measurement Markings – For measuring water height and velocity

5. Outlet Valve – Controls discharge from the tank

6. Mounting Frame – Provides stability and safe operation

The apparatus is constructed using corrosion-resistant materials to ensure durability and repeated laboratory use.

Working of Free Vortex Apparatus

• Water is filled into the tank to a specified level

• A paddle or stirrer initiates rotation, forming a free vortex

• The tangential velocity of water is measured at different radial distances

• Pressure distribution is observed across the vortex

• The experiment demonstrates vortex formation, velocity variation, and pressure drop from periphery to center

This process allows students to visually and quantitatively analyze free vortex behavior.

Key Features of Free Vortex Apparatus

• Transparent tank for clear observation of vortex

• Easy measurement of velocity and pressure distribution

• Smooth and stable rotation with minimal friction

• Durable and corrosion-resistant construction

• Low maintenance and long life

• Compatible with standard hydraulic benches

Advantages of Free Vortex Apparatus

• Helps understand natural vortex formation in fluids

• Demonstrates principles of conservation of angular momentum

• Enhances practical learning in fluid mechanics labs

• Bridges theoretical knowledge and real-life applications

• Safe and controlled experimental setup

Applications of Free Vortex Apparatus

1. Engineering Colleges & Universities

• Fluid mechanics laboratory experiments

• Hydraulic and mechanical engineering practicals

• Research on vortex flow behavior

2. Research & Development Institutes

• Vortex flow studies

• Pressure and velocity distribution analysis

• Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) validation

3. Industrial Relevance

• Turbine inlet flow analysis

• Hydraulic machinery design

• Flow optimization in pipelines

4. Natural Phenomena Study

• Whirlpool and drain vortex simulation

• Cyclone and tornado modeling

Countries Where Free Vortex Apparatus is Used

Free Vortex Apparatus is widely used in:

• India

• USA

• UK

• Germany

• Canada

• Australia

• UAE

• Singapore

• South Africa

With international delivery, Scilabstore and scilabex.com supply globally recognized educational equipment.

Why Choose Scilabex & Scilabstore?

• ✔ Trusted scientific and laboratory equipment suppliers

• ✔ High-quality apparatus for educational and research use

• ✔ PAN India delivery available

• ✔ International shipping supported

• ✔ Equipment compliant with international standards

• ✔ Reliable customer support

Both scilabex.com and Scilabstore are recognized as trusted companies, providing accurate and durable Free Vortex Apparatus to institutions worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the main purpose of Free Vortex Apparatus?

To study the formation, velocity distribution, and pressure drop in a free vortex.

Q2. Which principle does it demonstrate?

It demonstrates conservation of angular momentum and Bernoulli’s theorem.

Q3. Is it suitable for engineering labs?

Yes, it is a standard fluid mechanics laboratory apparatus.

Q4. Can this apparatus simulate natural vortices?

Yes, it can simulate whirlpools and other vortex phenomena.

Q5. Is international delivery available?

Yes, Scilabex and Scilabstore provide PAN India & international delivery.