Abstract
Jet pumps, vortex amplifiers and Y-joints are examples of “fluid-dynamic 3-terminal elements” (3TE). There are many other such devices all of which have useful flow controlling effects. An interesting form of classification results from considering 3TE to operate in just two flow-states, in this case those with zero flow in one terminal are chosen. This gives four distinct flow-state classes. Having identified these flow states the pressure states are classified in terms of ideal lossless operation, absolute gain and amplitude modulation. These attributes are represented graphically using the indefinite circle-diagram. A table is drawn-up with 20 device-types resulting from the 4 flow states and 5 types of pressure classifications. Further subclassification is possible. The origin and significance of the various types of “reverse flow diverters” is then made clear along with other types of junctions, vortex devices and diverters which are established fluidic components.
