Y. Mendez - Independent Research Group, Ottawa, Ontario, K۲B ۵W۹

This paper derives a solution for the settling velocity of isolated coplanar aggregates of n identical spherical particles in creeping motion based on the Wall Shear-Pressure Gradient-Expansion model (WPE) previously derived by the author. The solution is reached by developing geometry-equilibrium mathematical constructs to decide on the dimensions of the free ambient expansions surrounding the aggregates to compute the entire velocity profile. A rational to decide on the orientation and stability of rotation is also proposed. The results compare well with the outcome of available theory and some relevant data sets.

Doublet, Triplet, Settling velocity, Expansion, Spherical aggregates, Wall shear, non spherical particles, Pressure gradient