Simulation of properties of flat and ring Couette flow in semicircular channel

Used the set-up with a semi-circular gap allows the realization of different types of Couette flow and to change the flow parameters (velocity, pressure, Reynolds and Knudsen numbers, etc.) over a wide range. Reynolds number can be varied by the cylinder rotation speed and pressure inside the facility. Obtaining high Knudsen numbers is possible at low pressures and using light gases, since the system is sealed. The nature of the flow varies from laminar to turbulent ones. Simulation of the properties of the flat Couette flow in the stand should be ensured by minimizing the influence on the flow of centrifugal forces, which are manifested by distortion of the linear velocity profile. Preliminary experiments have shown the possibility of modeling the formation of longitudinal vortices in a semi-circular channel similar to the circular Couette flow.