A mechanism for control of turbulent separated flow in rectangular diffusers

Hayder Schneider*, Dominic A. Von Terzi, Hans Jörg Bauer, Wolfgang Rodi

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleScientificpeer-review

11 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The turbulent separated flow through an asymmetric diffuser with and without manipulation of incoming turbulence-driven mean secondary vortices (MSVs) from a rectangular duct is investigated by large-eddy simulations. The simulations carried out for two diffuser geometries reveal that by introducing a small amount of mean-flow kinetic energy via the MSVs into the flow, the complex three-dimensional separation behaviour and pressure recovery can be effectively controlled. Manipulated MSVs were found to enhance cross-sectional transport of high-momentum fluid, which determined the location, shape, and size of the separation bubble. The integral effect was a delay or expedition in the onset of separation. This change strongly affected the conversion of mean-flow kinetic energy to pressure, in particular for the front part of the diffuser. In addition, a substantial reduction in total pressure loss could be achieved. The manipulation of the MSVs is an efficient mechanism for performance enhancement in the cases investigated. The results have important implications for both control and statistical modelling of turbulent separated flow in rectangular diffusers.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)584-594
Number of pages11
JournalJournal of Fluid Mechanics
Volume687
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2011
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • flow control
  • turbulent flows

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'A mechanism for control of turbulent separated flow in rectangular diffusers'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this