Observing Thermal Counterflow in He II by the Particle Image Velocimetry Technique

The Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) technique can be used to obtain a whole-field view of thermal counterflow velocity profile in He II. Using commercially available microspheres, we have been able to visualize the normal fluid velocity in He II thermal counterflow; however, the measured velocities are less than predicted from the two fluid model. None the less, the PIV is a useful tool for observing the counterflow field in He II flow, particularly where the flow is complex as occurs through channel constrictions or around bluff objects. The present paper shows recent results using PIV to observe He II counterflow. Two cases are discussed: 1D channel flow and turbulent flow around a circular cylinder.