Low volumetric flow rate injection system

Abstract

Current research is being studied in polymer drag reduction within a turbulent boundary layer. This research requires precise control of the volumetric flux of solution injected into a developing boundary layer. Because of significant uncertainty in the current system, a critical developing boundary layer. Because of significant uncertainty in the current system, a critical need exists for an improved injection system that is both mobile and has a wide range of operation. This project includes the design and construction of a mobile syringe pump system that has a mobile platform, digital control of the injection rate, ability to operate over a wide range of volumetric injection fluxes, and can be used with water and polymer solutions. The system design consisted of fluid flow analysis, sizing a motor, design of the system components, and digital controls. The system was tested to verify the flow rates that could be achieved. This calibration found the maximum achievable flow rate to be 8Qs. Additional calibration will be done to the system onve the system construction is finalized.