Segment V7.2: Environmental Models

(Related to Textbook Section 7.8.1 - Theory of Models)

Scale models are widely used in fluid mechanics. It is essential that such models be designed and operated with careful consideration given to the necessary similarity requirements.

Plume dispersion in a building complex is studied using scale models located in a large environ-mental wind tunnel. Spires at the tunnel entrance and roughness elements on the floor of the tunnel are used to create the necessary flow similarity in the test section. The effect of wind speed and direction on the dispersion of a plume can be determined for the geometrically scaled model. (Video courtesy of Cermak Peterka Petersen, Inc.)