Loss Coefficients in Laminar Flows: Indispensable for the Design of Micro Flow Systems

The concept of head loss coefficients K for the determination of losses in conduit components is discussed in detail. While so far it has mainly been applied to fully turbulent flows it is extended here to also cover the laminar flow regime. Specific numbers of K can be determined by integration of the entropy generation field (second law analysis) obtained from a numerical simulation. This general approach is discussed and illustrated for various conduit components.