Computational fluid dynamics modelling of electro-structured flows

The use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software for modelling the fl ow of electro-structured fluids is introduced. A non-Newtonian fluids packa ge written specifically to model Bingham plastics is validated for several flow rates between stationary parallel plates for varying yield stresses, p late separations and lengths. The computing procedure is rationalised in te rms of grid fitting of the 'plug' edge. The programme is modified to includ e an analytical expression which relates delectro-rheological fluid paramet ers. This approach is then used to predict valve flow rates from small samp le, Couette viscometer produced data: its output compares with experimental results.