Wake Frequency Calculation For Thermowell

Wake Frequency Equation:

\[ f_w = 0.22 \times \frac{v}{d} \]

Wake Frequency (f_w):

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1. What is Wake Frequency Calculation For Thermowell?

Wake frequency calculation for thermowell determines the frequency at which vortices are shed from a thermowell inserted in a fluid flow. This is important to avoid resonance and potential structural failure.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the wake frequency equation:

\[ f_w = 0.22 \times \frac{v}{d} \]

Where:

\( f_w \) — Wake frequency (Hz)
\( v \) — Fluid velocity (m/s)
\( d \) — Thermowell diameter (m)

Explanation: The equation calculates the frequency of vortex shedding based on fluid velocity and thermowell diameter, using the Strouhal number of 0.22 for cylindrical structures.

3. Importance of Wake Frequency Calculation

Details: Calculating wake frequency is crucial for thermowell design to ensure that the natural frequency of the thermowell doesn't match the vortex shedding frequency, which could lead to resonance and structural failure.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter fluid velocity in m/s and thermowell diameter in m. Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the significance of the 0.22 coefficient?
A: The 0.22 value represents the Strouhal number for flow around a cylindrical structure, which is empirically determined for vortex shedding calculations.

Q2: Why is wake frequency important for thermowell design?
A: If the wake frequency matches the natural frequency of the thermowell, it can cause resonance leading to excessive vibrations and potential structural failure.

Q3: What units should be used for input values?
A: Velocity should be in meters per second (m/s) and diameter in meters (m) to get wake frequency in Hertz (Hz).

Q4: Are there limitations to this calculation?
A: This is a simplified calculation. Actual vortex shedding may be affected by fluid properties, thermowell shape, and installation conditions.

Q5: How can resonance be avoided?
A: By ensuring the calculated wake frequency is sufficiently different from the thermowell's natural frequency, typically by a safety margin of 20-30%.