at low velocity, flow is smooth, with individual fluid particles flowing parallel to each other. At higher velocity flow becomes turbulent. In general the flow will still be in the same direction but there will be a small chaotic component. The interesting part is that the chaotic component (turbulence) often makes the flow more efficient.

To get really dorktastic... if you solve the Navier-Stokes equations (the equations that govern fluid dynamics) for a smooth geometry you will always get the laminar solution. You have to intentionally introduce a disturbance to get the turbulent solution. In terms of turbulence it is the small imperfections that really matter.

Are we supposed to understand what you're talking about?

Does it also make the conversion to heat more efficient when the gas is burned?

No! That's why I get paid so well



Yes! turbulence increases mixing which gets more components of the reaction closer together. It allows for more complete combustion.

Since you are in RB, sounds like you are working at Boeing. Either that or designing surfboards.

Well that make sense to me, and that "Tornado Wick Jet Alcohol Stove" is pretty darn cool too. The video showing how to make was especially cool. The tubing bending trick using sand was awesome, and so was his can cutter.

Thanks for sharing that!

I work at The Aerospace Corp... I tell the Air-force if what Boeing (actually ULA.. 50% Boeing/50% Lockheed-Martin) is planning to do will actually work.

I figure it had to be something along those lines. A friend of mine used to work for Boeing on the Space Shuttle project. She wasn't an engineer, an accountant or something like that, I think. I also know a couple of people who work for aerospace companies in El Segundo.

I take beano to help with my laminar solution.

Thanks for the great discussion, folks! I ended up going ith the MSR pocket rocket, and my 16yo son thinks it's the greatest thing since sliced bread!

Lesley

My new alchy stove made from Miller Lite aluminum bottles got its first field test on Wednesday. I used it to warm up a can of beans on a day hike with an inch of snow on the ground, gusting winds, in 27 degrees F, at 3200 ft. It took more time to prime than at home, and I doubt it would have made water hot enough for pasta, but I call that a successful test in extreme conditions.

At home, it bings water to a full boil within 4 minutes of lighting it.

I've wanted to make a stove from one of these 'aluminum bottles' as well, but they are no where to be found where I live.

I talked to a guy who owns a liquor store near me and he had no idea what I was talking about. I guess they just don't sell them on the west coast.

Sure they do. I've seen them in the mini marts, filled with soda and beer of various kinds.

I can not find them any where here in Ventura. I've looked in grocery stores, liquor stores, 7-11, etc...

Also looked all over Simi Valley when I worked there. Nothing.