Increasing possibilities of computer-aided data processing have caused a new revival of optical techniques in many areas of mechanical and chemical en gineering. Optical methods have a long tradition in heat and mass transfer and in fluid dynamics. Global experimental information is not sufficient for developing constitution equations to describe complicated phenomena in fluid dynamics or in transfer processes by a computer program . Furthermore, a detailed insight with high local and temporal resolution into the thermo-and fluiddynamic situations is necessary. Sets of equations for computer program in thermo dynamics and fluid dynamics usually consist of two types of formulations: a first one derived from the conservation laws for mass, energy and momentum, and a second one mathematically modelling transport processes like laminar or turbulent diffusion. For reliably predicting the heat transfer, for example, the velocity and temperature field in the boundary layer must be known, or a physically realistic and widely valid correlation describing the turbulence must be avail able. For a better understanding of combustion processes it is necessary to know the local concentration and temperature just ahead of the flame and in the ignition zone.

Schlieren and Shadowgraph Methods in Heat and Mass Transfer lays out the fundamentals of refractive index based imaging techniques, optical configurations, image analysis, and three dimensional reconstructions. The present monograph aims at temperature and concentration measurements in transparent media using ray bending effects in a variable refractive index field. Data analysis procedure for three-dimensional reconstruction of temperature and concentration field using images at different view angles is presented. Test cases illustrating the validation of the quantitative analysis procedure are presented.

The Art of Measuring in the Thermal Sciences provides an original state-of-the-art guide to scholars who are conducting thermal experiments in both academia and industry. Applications include energy generation, transport, manufacturing, mining, processes, HVAC&R, etc. This book presents original insights into advanced measurement techniques and systems, explores the fundamentals, and focuses on the analysis and design of thermal systems. Discusses the advanced measurement techniques now used in thermal systems Links measurement techniques to concepts in thermal science and engineering Draws upon the original work of current researchers and experts in thermal-fluid measurement Includes coverage of new technologies, such as micro-level heat transfer measurements Covers the main types of instrumentation and software used in thermal-fluid measurements This book offers engineers, researchers, and graduate students an overview of the best practices for conducting sound measurements in the thermal sciences.