Determination of Fluid Friction Factor for Nanofluids in Pipes

Nanofluids are explained as suspensions of nanoparticles in conventional heat transfer fluids. Nanofluids possess enhanced thermal conductivity therefore making it desirable for advanced heat transfer applications. Until recently, numerous studies and researches regarding nanofluids are directed towards heat transfer. Therefore, little is known regarding the relationship between nanofluids and how they affect fluid friction factor for flow in pipes. Hence, this study aims to study and determine the parameters responsible for affecting the fluid friction factor in pipes concerning nanofluids. The objectives of this study include studying preparation methods of nanofluids and also to determine the fluid friction factor for three nanofluids at the same concentration. The scope of the study focuses on oxide ceramics and metallic nanoparticles of different densities and viscosity. Firstly, a theory is developed to model the experiment and hence the outcome of the experiment can be predicted whereby fluid friction factor of different nanofluids is dependent on their respective densities. Secondly, nanoparticles dispersed in aqueous solutions are procured and nanofluids are synthesized by dilution with distilled water. The nanofluids are flowed into experimental pipe setup where their respective pressure drops are measured. Further data analysis is conducted to establish and evaluate the fluid friction factor by means of a Moody chart and Colebrook equation. The variable concerned in this study is the density of individual nanoparticles chosen.