A mathematical model of flow through a collapsible tube--I. Model and steady flow results.

A one-dimensional model is presented to describe the flow through a collapsible tube whose ends are tethered to rigid tubes and which is enclosed in a pressurized chamber. Results are presented for the special case of steady flow. Predicted pressure drop versus flow rate (delta P-Q) characteristics agree qualitatively with available experimental data. The significance of the model and of various physical parameters, in regard to the shape of these characteristics, is discussed.