Equations to determine energy losses in sudden and gradual change of direction

Abstract

Equations to estimate the K coefficient have been obtained for devices of change direction of ducts under forced regime. For this approach, a state of art was carried out where it was noticed that the traditionally utilized methods that evaluate the losses of the devices needed tables and/or graphics when estimating the K coefficient, which is singular to each accessory. Each theory was analyzed and classified accordingly to each piece whenever these are present in sudden or gradual conditions. The data was homogenized with the purpose to obtain average curves values of the coefficient. The results were used as data in methods of multiple linear regressions until obtain a representative equation for each case studied. These equations have the advantage of being reliable to determine the loss of K coefficient without having to manipulate tables and graphics; this allows saving time when designing and testing the hydraulic behavior in forced ducts. Finally, these equations can be implemented in advanced computational algorithms which will allow the analysis and modeling of the losses caused by friction in different scenarios.