Hele-Shaw Experiments on Jets and Flow in Porous Media

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Experiments and Research performed by Ibinabo Bestmann & Edouard Kravchinsky
 May 2014 - August 2014
Department of Physics, University of Alberta

Background

The focus of this research is to investigate the apparent behaviour of miscible fluid flow constrained to two dimensions by two parallel planes, separated by an infinitesimally small gap (neglecting gravity). We also aim to observe how the presence of particles influences instability within the fluid jet. To date, most experiments concerning this problem have primarily focused on vertical fluid injection. Our study will consider the case of horizontal fluid injection, where the flow is steady.

Experimental Set-up

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Figure 1: Hele-Shaw Cell + Reservoir System
The Hele-Shaw Cell experimental setup (Figure 1) was constructed using two parallel sheets. We conducted two versions of the experiment, utilizing plexiglass acrylic and glass sheets as a result of their varying rigidities. The rubber spacer used to define the separation distance (thickness) of ~7mm. The rubber spacer was silicon glued down on all four sides of one sheet, while the other sheet was clamped on, as shown below (Figures 2.1 and 2.2).

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Figure 2.1: Side View of Hele-Shaw Cell 		simulation image
Figure 2.2: End View of Hele-Shaw Cell

The cell was attached to a reservoir system (Figures 3.1 and 3.2) consisting of the water pump (~160 gph) and water supply.

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Figure 3.1: Side View of Reservoir 		simulation image
Figure 3.2: End View of Reservoir


Results



Video 1: Injection of water into water with bottom support
(click for experiment demonstration)

As the flow leaves the 12cm long channel within the Hele Shaw cell, it turns back upon itself and flows along the outside of the channel and then up along the side walls the cell.

Video 2: Injection of water into water in porous medium with bottom support (acrylic sheets)
(click for experiment demonstration)

If the Hele-Shaw cell is filled with glass beads, the flow pattern is significantly different. Rather than turning back upon itself, the flow moves through the porous medium as a meandering jet.

Acknowledgements

This research was financially supported by grants from:
  • Mirko Van Der Baan
  • Bruce Sutherland
Special thanks to Dr. Bruce Sutherland and everyone in his research group for this amazing experience.
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