New experimental correlations to characterize compressible flow losses at 90-degree T-junctions

New experimental correlations to characterize energy losses in adiabatic compressible flow at 90-degree T-junctions and their expanded uncertainties are presented. These new correlations are based on a new linking between branches coefficient definition, (K) over cap, and show a logarithmic relationship with mass flow rate ratio between branches, q, and the extrapolated Mach number in the common branch, M-3*, for all the different flow types studied. The extrapolated properties up to the junction are calculated, from measurement sections, subtracting the frictional losses using the Fanno fluid flow model. These two parameters or global correlations, (K) over cap = (K) over cap (M-3*, q), can be easily implemented as boundary conditions into 1-D global simulation codes. (C) 2008 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.