Impact of Temperature on Reynolds Number and Fluid Flow Characteristics

Temperature variation affects the flow field characteristics and Reynolds number (Re) of a fluid due to the dependence of kinematic viscosity on temperature. This research uses the Osborne Reynolds apparatus to explore the impact of temperature variation on the flow characteristics of water flowing through a pipe at different velocities. The experiment systematically raises the water temperature from 20 °C to 40 °C in increments of 5 °C at varying velocities. Ink dye injection visualizes flow regimes (laminar, transitional, turbulent) to validate the theoretical connection between Re and flow behaviour. The primary objective is to demonstrate and quantify the relationship between decreasing kinematic viscosity and increasing temperature, which affects the Reynolds number even at constant flow velocities. Additionally, the study aims to calculate the friction factor at various Reynolds number values across varying temperature conditions. The analysis of these combined effects on Reynolds number and friction factor will provide valuable insights into how temperature influences fluid flow characteristics and what changes are expected. The research concludes that temperature plays a pivotal role in determining the transition from laminar to turbulent flow, emphasizing the need to account for thermal effects in fluid system design. Higher temperatures reduce viscous effects, increase kinetic energy, and accelerate turbulence formation. Moreover, a trend of decreasing friction factor with increasing temperature is observed, indicating improved flow efficiency at elevated temperatures.