Settling Velocity With Respect To Specific Gravity Of Particle Calculator

Settling Velocity Formula:

\[ V_s = \sqrt{\frac{4 \cdot [g] \cdot (SG - 1) \cdot D}{3 \cdot C_D}} \]

Settling Velocity (V_s):

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1. What is Settling Velocity?

Settling velocity refers to the terminal velocity of a particle in still fluid. It is the constant speed that a particle eventually reaches when the resistance of the fluid equals the gravitational force acting on the particle.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the settling velocity formula:

\[ V_s = \sqrt{\frac{4 \cdot [g] \cdot (SG - 1) \cdot D}{3 \cdot C_D}} \]

Where:

\( V_s \) — Settling velocity (m/s)
\( [g] \) — Gravitational acceleration (9.80665 m/s²)
\( SG \) — Specific gravity of material
\( D \) — Diameter of particle (m)
\( C_D \) — Drag coefficient

Explanation: The formula calculates the terminal velocity of a particle settling in a fluid based on its physical properties and the fluid's resistance.

3. Importance of Settling Velocity Calculation

Details: Settling velocity calculations are crucial in various engineering applications including sedimentation processes, water treatment, mineral processing, and environmental studies of particle transport in fluids.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter specific gravity (dimensionless), diameter in meters, and drag coefficient (dimensionless). All values must be positive numbers greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is specific gravity of material?
A: Specific gravity is a dimensionless unit defined as the ratio of the density of the material to the density of water at a specified temperature.

Q2: How is drag coefficient determined?
A: Drag coefficient depends on the shape of the particle and the Reynolds number. It can be obtained from experimental data or empirical correlations.

Q3: What factors affect settling velocity?
A: Settling velocity is affected by particle size, density, shape, fluid viscosity, and fluid density.

Q4: When is this formula applicable?
A: This formula is generally applicable for spherical particles settling in Newtonian fluids under laminar flow conditions.

Q5: How does temperature affect settling velocity?
A: Temperature affects fluid viscosity and density, which in turn influence the drag coefficient and settling velocity calculations.