Dividing-Flow Manifolds with Square-Edged Laterals

A method of analysis for dividing-flow junction losses based on correlation of numerous data sets is presented. Illustrative examples are given to describe the use of the analytical procedure to evaluate dividing manifold problems. The entry loss coefficients for laterals discharging from a dividing-flow manifold are found to bear lineal relationships to the squares of the ratios of manifold-to-lateral velocities. The entry loss coefficients for short laterals are larger than those for long laterals. Since the entry loss characteristic dictates dividing-flow distributions, the preferred design technique will compel equal flow distribution by maintaining the same manifold-to-lateral velocity ratio at every junction point.