Grant: Research Tools and Instruments

The Research Tools and Instruments grant is requested to purchase a Laser Doppler Anemometry (LDA) system for Memorial University. LDA uses the Doppler Effect to provide precise measurements of fluid dynamics and fluid-solid interaction. Faculty growth has created a major expansion in thermo-fluid research at Memorial University and the proposed equipment is critical for the applicants to properly conduct their research programs. Primary focuses of the applicants are to investigate flow physics in multiphase flow, phase change / separation, and aerodynamics. The research provides significant benefits to several activities, including pipelines, oil extraction, Arctic and Subarctic vessels / structures, fluidized beds, thermochemical cycles, slurry transport, and power generation, among many others. Outcomes of the research will have industrial relevance and benefits to the economy of Newfoundland and Labrador (NL), and Canada. The outcomes from this research will improve oil and gas extraction in Arctic and Subarctic regions. For multiphase internal flow, Memorial University is equipped with a large scale (3 inch diameter) multiphase flow loop and a small scale loop that has significant operability is nearly complete. The new flow loop is designed to research phase separation, phase change insulation and flow assurance, among others. The aim of the research is to improve long distance transport of hydrocarbons by reducing pumping requirements and limiting oversized equipment, as well as ensuring safe disposal of treated water and limiting spills / leaks. The research team is investigating the combined physics of aerodynamics, phase change and external multiphase flow to enhance wind turbine performance in northern coastal locations and improve marine vessel safety in Subarctic regions. A climatic wind chamber with salt water spay and supercooling capabilities is nearly complete at Memorial University. The high quantities of water droplet impingement and ice accretion will be studied experimentally to improve predictive models and mitigation strategies for ice accretion. LDA a crucial measurement device to properly study the physical differences of salt and fresh water freezing by providing precise localized measurements for correlation development and model validation. The new LDA system will provide high quality and non-intrusive measurement for several researchers in a wide-variety of research projects. LDA offers important capabilities to the research team that are not possible with currently available systems, which equips Memorial University to conduct high-impact research with industrial relevance to NL and Canada.