Dynamics of Lorentz-force activated oscillating jet

Abstract

The present study experimentally investigates the dynamics of an oscillating jet activated by an alternating Lorentz force imposed on a conductive liquid. The oscillating jet is categorized based on the existence of the Lorentz force forcing frequency. A model is developed for steady jets without any forcing frequency to estimate the trajectory, which is then compared with experimental results. The model reveals the relationship between the tangent of the jet trajectory angle and the various dimensionless numbers. The behavior of the oscillating jet is classified into three regimes based on non-dimensional Strouhal and Stuart numbers, scaled by body and inertial forces. These regimes include quasi-steady, bifurcating, and asymptotic jet regimes, discerned by the characteristics of the bifurcating jet. Characteristics of each regime are explored. For quasi-steady jets, the jet can be approximated from a steady jet with an identical crossflow velocity magnitude. In bifurcating jets, distinct streams form through periodic vortex breakup. Finally, in asymptotic jets, the jet spread is increased compared to ordinary jets.