Similitude Conditions in Free-Surface Vortex Formations.

Abstract : The report describes an investigation into the effects of fluid viscosity and surface tension on free-surface vortex flows and presents the results of this study. Experiments were conducted in two different sized cylindrical tanks with adjustable vanes at the perimetry to allow varying degrees of initial circulation to be generated at the entrance to the test section. Different fluids were used to investigate the effects of viscosity and surface tension on the incipient conditions for vortex formation and vortex size and shape. (Modified author abstract)