Explicit solutions for turbulent flow friction factor: A review, assessment and approaches classification

Abstract

The Colebrook –white equation is widely used in many fields, like civil engineering for calculation of water distribution systems and in all fields of engineering where fluid flow can be occurred. Numerous formulas have been proposed since 1947 in order to simplify the computation of the friction factor, to avoid the iterative procedures methods and to alter the Colebrook-white equation in practice. most of the existing explicit formulas for computation of the friction factor for turbulent flow in rough pipes proposed are cited, where thirty three “33” equations have been inventoried. The goal of this paper is to assess the accuracy of each model and to propose an arrangement from the best to the lower accuracy according to a proposed method combined of three criteria which are: simplicity of the formula, maximum deviations and the coverage of the entire range of Moody diagram. Keywords: Friction factor, Explicit solutions, Moody diagram, Maximum deviation, Turbulent flow