| Abstract: | A new method for cleaning inner surfaces of pipes was studied both theoretically and experimentally. The method is based on the phenomenon of a sphere rotating in a pipe (levitation), when the translational movement of the sphere is restricted and the sphere is subjected to fluid flow in the pipe. The high rotation velocity causes a vibration process, which may be exploited for cleaning sediments or rust from the inner surfaces of pipes. A simplified theoretical model for the determination of the relationships among the dimensionless parameters governing the rotation phenomenon was developed. The model was validated with experimental data and found to be appropriate for engineering design of the system. Application of the cleaning method was demonstrated by cleaning the sediments and rust off the inner surface of a one-inch nominal diameter pipe. |
