Free Force Vortex Apparatus
Product Code : EL-FML-11046
Quick answer: The free and forced vortex apparatus lets students plot the water surface profile of both vortex types in one clear acrylic cylinder of about 200 mm diameter. Four circumferential jets create the free vortex, and a variable speed motor spins the cylinder to create the forced vortex. Lab Exports manufactures it in Delhi for engineering colleges, polytechnics and TVET institutes.
Specifications
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Cylinder | Transparent acrylic, approx. 200 mm dia. |
| Overflow point height | 150 mm |
| Forced vortex drive | FHP variable speed motor with V-belt drive |
| Free vortex inlets | Four circumferential jets near the base |
| Outlet orifice | Reducing bush arrangement for smaller diameters |
How the vortex experiment is done
A forced vortex rotates like a solid body: every particle has the same angular velocity omega, so v = omega r and the free surface forms a paraboloid, z = omega^2 r^2 / (2g), measured from its lowest point at the centre. A free vortex has no external torque; angular momentum is conserved, so v r = constant, the speed rises towards the centre and the surface dips steeply there, following z = constant - C^2 / (2 g r^2).
In a free vortex the flow is irrotational and the total head is the same on every streamline, whereas a forced vortex needs a continuous work input to keep it turning. Measuring the surface at a series of radii and comparing it with these equations is the core of the experiment.
- For the forced vortex, fill the cylinder, start the motor and set a steady speed.
- Once the surface stops changing, measure its height at several radii.
- Record the speed and compare the profile with omega^2 r^2 / (2g).
- For the free vortex, supply water through the four jets and let it drain through the chosen outlet bush.
- Measure the surface at several radii and repeat with a different reducing bush.
Key features
- Free and forced vortex in one set-up
- Transparent acrylic cylinder of approx. 200 mm diameter for a clear view of the surface
- Four circumferential jets form the free vortex with negligible jet torque
- Variable speed motor and V-belt spin the cylinder about its vertical axis for the forced vortex
- Reducing bush orifice for testing different outlet diameters
- Overflow point at 150 mm height
Documentation and supply
Installation instructions and a manual are supplied with the apparatus. Most Lab Exports products carry a one-year manufacturer warranty.
Lab Exports manufactures the free and forced vortex apparatus at its works in Laxmi Nagar, Delhi, and supplies it to engineering colleges, polytechnics and TVET institutes in India and 60+ countries, handling the export documents for each shipment. More about the company is on the About Lab Exports page.
Related Fluid Mechanics Lab products
- Pitot Static Tube Set-up (EL-FML-11045)
- Orifice Mouthpieces Apparatus (EL-FML-11047)
- Metacentric Height Apparatus (EL-FML-11044)
- Study of Flow Measurement Devices (EL-FML-11048)
- Impact of Jet on Vanes Apparatus (EL-FML-11043)
- Flow Over Weir or Open Channel Apparatus (EL-FML-11049)
The full range is in the Fluid Mechanics Lab section of the Engineering Lab range.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a free and a forced vortex?
A forced vortex is driven by an external torque and turns like a solid body, with v = omega r; a free vortex has no torque, so v r is constant and the speed rises towards the centre.
How is the free vortex produced?
Water enters through four circumferential jets near the base of the cylinder and drains through the central outlet, which can be reduced with bushes.
What is the price of the free and forced vortex apparatus?
Prices are not published on the website. Add the free and forced vortex apparatus to the Enquiry Cart with the Add To Cart button on this page, or email [email protected] with the house code EL-FML-11046 and the quantity, to receive a quotation.
Does Lab Exports manufacture the free and forced vortex apparatus?
Yes. Lab Exports manufactures the free and forced vortex apparatus at its works at 11/315, Lalita Park, Laxmi Nagar, Delhi 110092, under house code EL-FML-11046.
Request a quote
Email [email protected] with the house code EL-FML-11046 and the quantity, or add the free and forced vortex apparatus to the Enquiry Cart with the Add To Cart button on this page. Tender buyers can also see the Tenders and OEM page.
