Simulation of Vortex growth in planar entry flow of a viscoelastic fluid

Abstract A numerical simulation of entry flow in a slit die has been undertaken for a fluid that is Newtonian in shear but exhibits normal stresses (Boger fluid). Experimentally measured normal stress and viscosity data are included in a simple rheological model. Flow patterns reveal the existence of vortices in the reservoir corners. Vortex size and intensity increase rapidly with elasticity level.