Reply to "Comment on Sochi's variational method for generalised Newtonian flow" by Pritchard and Corson

TL;DR

This paper defends and clarifies the variational method for generalized Newtonian fluid flow, arguing it is not limited to power law fluids and is based on solid theoretical principles.

Contribution

It challenges previous claims about the method's limitations and reaffirms its theoretical basis using the Euler-Lagrange principle.

Findings

The variational method applies to a broader class of fluids than previously claimed.

Theoretical foundation based on minimizing total stress is valid.

Method's accuracy is supported for generalized Newtonian fluids.

Abstract

In this article we challenge the claim that the previously proposed variational method to obtain flow solutions for generalized Newtonian fluids in circular tubes and plane slits is exact only for power law fluids. We also defend the theoretical foundation and formalism of the method which is based on minimizing the total stress through the application of the Euler-Lagrange principle.