Study for the gas flow through a critical nozzle

In the present study, computational work using the axisymmetric, compressible, Navier-Stokes equations is carried out to predict the discharge coefficient and critical pressure ratio of gas flow through a critical nozzle. The Reynolds number effects are investigated with several nozzles with different throat diameter. Diffuser angle is varied to investigate the effects on the discharge coefficient and critical pressure ratio. The computational results are compared with the previous experimental ones. It is known that the discharge coefficient and critical pressure ratio are given by functions of the Reynolds number and boundary layer integral properties. It is also found that diffuser angle affects the critical pressure ratio.