An experimental technique for the study of velocity profiles in a laminar jet using a pulsed nitrogen laser

Abstract

A nonintrusive technique for flow visualization of momentum jets has been investigated. A flow system containing a fluid photosensitive to ultraviolet radiation (a solution of mineral spirits and photochromic dye) has been constructed for generating a momentum jet in a test chamber. An ultraviolet beam (337.1 nm) from a pulsed nitrogen gas laser was fired through the test chamber producing opaque traces in the jet and ambient fluid. Movement of the fluid deformed these traces and produced a record of fluid flow. Velocity distributions have been obtained in laminar jets.