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Fluid Dynamics and Multiphase FlowThe Fluid Dynamics and Multiphase Flow Section performs applied research
for industries ranging from space exploration to oil and gas production. The
section serves as the Institute's primary resource for fluid dynamic research.
The group maintains active research programs in the following areas: Multiphase Flow ResearchExtensive research programs are conducted to support
the drilling, production and transmission sectors of the oil and gas industry.
Project work includes drilling hydraulics, cementing, separation, multiphase
pumping and metering, wet gas measurement, and flow assurance. A dedicated
multiphase flow loop is available to support experimental studies in many of
these areas. Space Fluids EngineeringSwRI has been involved in the study of space fluid behavior beginning with the Apollo program in the mid-1960s. The section's staff has provided a variety of solutions for the microgravity propellant dynamics challenges of the space industry. These innovations include propellant dynamics and management, environment control and life support system design and evaluation, flight hardware development, and flight experiment design, development and analysis.
Flow Component TestingStandard or specialized tests are conducted on products used by the oil and gas industry. Standard tests include qualification of surface and subsurface safety valves to American Petroleum Institute (API) Specifications 14A and 6AV1, as well as fire tests of valves and gaskets to API Specifications 6FA and 607. Specialized tests include gas lift valve performance evaluation, high temperature and pressure gasket testing, and flow coefficient determination. Additional custom testing is available. To learn more about SwRI's flow component testing facilities, please visit fctf.swri.org.
J. Christopher Buckingham, Manager Technical strengths and contacts in the section include:
Division PublicationsFluids
Engineering Department
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