The Definition of Pitot Tube: A Key Instrument for Measuring Fluid Flow
A Pitot Tube refers to a device used to measure fluid flow, particularly airspeed on aircraft. A small apparatus located on the front outside edge of an airfoil, it was initially designed by Henri Pitot, and later modernized by Henry Darcy. The tube is an open-end device that directly opens up into the free stream air passing by the aircraft and serves as the primary source of ram or impact pressure for an airspeed indicator.
The Pitot Tube plays a critical role in measuring fluid flow–its design is based on the principle that when a fluid is flowing in a pipe, its speed will increase as it passes through a constricted area. The tube consists of two channels that are perpendicular to each other: one that faces the direction of aircraft movement, and the other, which is perpendicular to it, senses the static pressure. The dynamic pressure difference between these two channels provides the differential pressure needed to determine the airspeed of an aircraft.
In addition to its use in aviation, the Pitot Tube is also used in other areas, such as measuring the flow of gases or liquids in pipes, tanks, and hydraulic systems. Thus, it is a crucial tool for various industries for determining fluid flow measurements accurately.
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