The Role of Ultrasonic Velocity Profiler (UVP-DUO) in Particle Research: a summary of seven studies


Introduction

In the realm of particle studies, the Ultrasonic Velocity Profiler (UVP-DUO) emerges as a pivotal instrument, offering a non-invasive method to explore the dynamics of particulate-laden flows. This blog post delves into seven selected studies that highlight the diverse applications of UVP-DUO technology in capturing the intricate behavior of particles across various fields.


1. Flow Monitoring of Particle-laden Flows Combining Ultrasonic Doppler and Echo Intensity Profiling Techniques (2018)

This study presents a novel methodology that combines Doppler velocity and echo information obtained from UVP to reveal inner structures of turbidity currents, focusing on the behavior affecting the sedimentation or transportation of fine particles. Utilizing quartz particles with a 13.5 µm diameter, it captures the relationship between echo profiles and particle number distributions, showcasing UVP’s potential in reconstructing particle number distributions from echo amplitude distributions.

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2. Characterizing Flocculated Suspensions with an Ultrasonic Velocity Profiler in Backscatter Mode (2021)

Exploring the concentration changes within complex suspensions, this research employs UVP in backscatter mode to assess flocculated environments. The study’s significance lies in its ability to use UVP for in situ and remote analysis through pipe walls, analyzing flocculated calcium carbonate suspensions, highlighting the role of particle size and concentration on acoustic attenuation.

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3. Acoustic Measurement of Suspended Sediment Concentration Profiles in an Oscillatory Boundary Layer (2011)

Pedocchi’s work leverages UVP to examine phase-averaged velocity and turbulent Reynolds stress profiles within oscillatory boundary layer flow. The study extends the application of UVP to estimate suspended sediment concentration profiles, offering insights into sediment dynamics over oscillation cycles, a testament to UVP’s versatility in sedimentological studies.

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4. Simultaneous Velocity and Concentration Profiling of Nuclear Waste Suspensions in Pipe-flow Using Ultrasonic Doppler and Backscatter Analysis (2021)

This investigation showcases UVP’s utility in characterizing sludge suspensions, particularly in the nuclear industry. By examining how particle size and concentration affect acoustic attenuation using spherical glass particles, the study underscores UVP’s promise for non-invasive characterization of nuclear waste suspensions.

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5. Ultrasonic Velocimetry for the In-situ Characterisation of Particulate Settling and Sedimentation (2011)

Hunter et al.’s research focuses on the development of an in-situ ultrasonic velocimetry technique to observe the settling behavior of particle dispersions. The study highlights UVP’s application in measuring particle velocities and tracking sediment bed interface evolution, particularly in coagulated systems, enhancing our understanding of particulate settling dynamics.

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6. Measuring Particle Concentration in Multiphase Pipe Flow Using Acoustic Backscatter: Generalization of the Dual-frequency Inversion Method (2014)

Rice et al. explore the measurement of particle concentration in multiphase flow, utilizing acoustic backscatter and the dual-frequency inversion method with UVP. The research illuminates the potential of UVP in differentiating between flow regimes in real suspensions, contributing significantly to multiphase flow analysis.

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7. Physical and Numerical Characterisation of an Agitated Tubular Reactor (ATR) for Intensification of Chemical Processes (2022)

Focusing on an oscillatory intensified plug-flow reactor, this study employs UVP to understand fluid mixing dynamics and the effects of agitation frequency and displacement on fluid velocity and turbulence. It showcases UVP’s role in characterizing flow systems for process intensification, with implications for the chemical processing industry.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, the UVP-DUO technology stands out as an indispensable tool in the study of particles, offering a unique lens through which scientists can examine the complexities of particulate-laden flows. Across diverse applications—from sediment transport and flocculation dynamics to process intensification and multiphase flow analysis—the studies reviewed herein illustrate the instrument’s versatility and its critical role in advancing our understanding of particle dynamics. The UVP-DUO, by enabling detailed and non-invasive measurements, continues to push the boundaries of particle research, promising further insights into the intricacies of particulate matter in various scientific domains.