Mean Flow Characteristics Downstream of a Vortex Tube Separator Array

What is it about?

Vortex tube separators (VTS) are used to filter foreign particles from the air entering helicopter engines using centrifugal force in a vortical flow. They are typically arranged in arrays of dozens or hundreds of separators, but have not been extensively studied in this configuration. We experimentally investigate the complex aerodynamics downstream of a VTS array model and find that a zone of recirculation forms in the center of the flow – a result unique to the array configuration which may influence the performance of the device.

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