Hydrodynamic characteristics of electrorheological fluid in a parallel duct flow

An experimental investigation is conducted to clarify the hydrodynamic char acteristics of ERF with elastic particles of smectite in a two-dimensional parallel duct of various widths. Experimental data on pressure difference t o a volumetric flow rate in a supplying D.C. electric field are measured. T hese data an arranged to obtain the apparent viscosity by using the integra l method of theology. From the data of apparent viscosity, die wall frictio n coefficient is obtained. The increment df the apparent viscosity caused b y the applying electric field is a function of shear rate as well as the el ectric field strength and the width of the duct. However, the wall friction coefficient is not a function of electric field strength and the width of the parallel duct, but only of shear rate. The yield stress is a function o f the width of the parallel duct as well as of electric field strength. The ratio of Non-Newtonian viscosity in the apparent viscosity is varied by th e intensity of the shear rate.