Research

Most projects completed in the Applied Fluid Mechanics Laboratory are partially sponsored by NSERC.

Industrial Sprays

Projects

    • Application of Liquid Friction Modifier to Train Tracks.
      • Liquid friction modifier (LFM) changes the coefficient of rolling friction between a wheel and a train track.
      • Use of LFM decreases fuel consumption by 6% on average.
      • LFM may be applied either from a moving train or from fixed track-side stations.
      • For LFM applied from a moving train, the key technical issue is how to get the liquid to deposit on the tracks without splashing.
      • For LFM applied from a track-side station, the key issue is how much liquid is carried down the tracks.
      • Sponsored by LB Foster, NSERC
    • Application of Traction Aid to Train Tracks.
      • When wet leaves accumulate on tracks, the reduction in friction can result in derailment. We are exploring ways to get traction aids onto the tracks.
      • Sponsored by LB Foster, NSERC

Pulp and Paper

Projects

    • Paper Drying.
      • Most of the energy used in papermaking is expended in the dryer section.
      • We are exploring the impact of dryer fabric on the drying process.
      • In collaboration with Professor Boris Stoeber
      • Sponsored by Asten Johnson, NSERC
    • Mechanics of Tissue Creping.
      • Tissue creping is the process that converts regular paper into paper towel and toilet paper.
      • The softness and absorbency of the creped paper is a function of the mechanics of the creping process.
      • In collaboration with Professor Srikanth Phani
      • Sponsored by FP Innovations, Kruger, Solenis

Building Ventilation

Projects

    • Energy Recovery Ventilators.
      • Energy recovery ventilators (ERV) are air-to-air heat exchangers that exchange both heat and humidity between the incoming and outgoing air.
      • ERVs can be significantly more efficient than conventional heat exchangers.
      • We are studying the fouling of ERV cores.
      • In collaboration with Professor Steven Rogak
      • Sponsored by dPoint, NSERC

Biological

Projects

    • Chewing and Swallowing.
      • We are studying the mechanics of chewing and swallowing.
      • In collaboration with Professor Sid Fels and the Artisynth group.
      • Sponsored by CIHR