Rotating Channel
Application ID: 14033
A lab-on-a-chip platform can be realized on a rotating disc by designing channels and other features to use the Coriolis or centrifugal forces to manipulate the flow. These forces are controlled by changing the angular velocity of the disc, so the platform is programmed by using a controlled sequence of angular velocities. In a microchannel, the centrifugal force induces a parabolic flow profile pointing in the radial direction. This is analogous to a Poiseuille or pressure-driven flow. The velocity-dependent Coriolis force produces an inhomogeneous transverse force in the tangential direction, which has its highest value in the center of the channel. This results in a change in the pressure distribution from that of a standard Poiseuille flow, which is assessed in this model.
This model example illustrates applications of this type that would nominally be built using the following products:
however, additional products may be required to completely define and model it. Furthermore, this example may also be defined and modeled using components from the following product combinations:
The combination of COMSOL® products required to model your application depends on several factors and may include boundary conditions, material properties, physics interfaces, and part libraries. Particular functionality may be common to several products. To determine the right combination of products for your modeling needs, review the Specification Chart and make use of a free evaluation license. The COMSOL Sales and Support teams are available for answering any questions you may have regarding this.