Fluid Mechanics: An Introduction to the Theory of Fluid Flows - Hardcover

by Franz Durst (Author)

This book begins with an introductory chapter summarizing the history of fluid mechanics. It then moves on to the essential mathematics and physics needed to understand and work in fluid mechanics. Analytical treatments are based on the Navier-Stokes equations.

Back Jacket

This book provides the fundamental knowledge allowing students in engineering and natural sciences to enter fluid mechanics and its applications in various fields where fluid flows need to be dealt with. Analytical treatments of flows are provided based on the "Conventional Navier-Stokes-Equations" (CNSE). The physics and mathematics of fundamental flow problems are explained in such detail that the reader receives a good introduction into the subject. Numerical methods and experimental techniques, applied in fluid mechanics, are also introduced.

This second edition of the book stresses that the CNSE are incomplete. They are missing molecular transport terms. These terms are derived in the book to yield the "Extended Navier-Stokes-Equations". These equations allow flows with strong fluid property gradients to be treated correctly, while the CNSE do not allow this.

The main benefit the reader will derive from the book is a sound introduction into various aspects of fluid mechanics.

Author Biography

Prof. Franz Durst studied Aeronautical Engineering at the Technical University of Stuttgart (from 1961 - 1967). He continued his university education at Imperial College of the University of London and completed his M.Sc.-degree in 1968 and his Ph.D.-degree in 1972.During his time at Imperial College in London he was involved in research and development work in fluid mechanics measuring techniques, like Hot-Wire- and Laser-Doppler-Anemometry. He continued this development work after joining a Special Research Centre at the Technical University of Karlsruhe in 1972. There the Phase-Doppler-Anemometry was developed for particulate two-phase flows with application to dispersion flows and sprays. He stayed at the centre in Karlsruhe for 10 years, carrying out research in laminar & turbulent fluid flows. Polymer flows, thin film flows and applications in wet-film coating, wind tunnel research and water treatments were part of his research in this time.
In 1982 Prof. Durst took over the directorship of the "Institute of Fluid Mechanics at the Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg". He built it up to a nationally and internationally highly recognized research institute in fluid mechanics.
One field of fluid mechanics was of particular interest to Prof. Durst relating to the validity of the basic equations of fluid mechanics, the continuity and the Navier-Stokes equations. He found out that, in their conventional from, these equations do not allow micro-channel and micro-capillary flows to be correctly predicted. The same is the case for shock wave flows and all other flows with strong density, pressure and temperature gradients. He derived the extended form of the basic equation of fluid mechanics and, with the help of some Ph.D.-students, he showed that these equations permit flows with strong gradients of fluid properties to be correctly predicted. The 2^nd edition of his Fluid Mechanics textbook contains a complete chapter dealing with this new field of fluid mechanics.