Evaluation of Some Wedge-shaped Vortex Generators Using Swirl Center Tracking

What is it about?

This work primarily investigates the the evolution of the vortices downstream of some ramp-type vortex generators. Four different designs of the ramp-type device are investigates: the standard or Anderson VG, slotted VG with a constant slot radius, slotted VG with a divergent slot, and a split-ramp. A swirl center method is used to determine the vortex center and helicity contours on cross-flow planes show the distribution of the primary and secondary vortices. It is observed that the the secondary vortices play an important role in determining the lift-off rate of the primary vortex. The effect of the vortices on the flow-field is investigated by comparing the near-surface streamwise velocity contours.

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Why is it important?

The lift-off rate of the primary vortices is considered to play an important role in determining the effectiveness of the device. It appears that the secondary vortices affect the inward movement of the primary vortices and consequently its lift-off rate. This finding is novel. Additionally this work propose a parameter to estimate the width over which the effect of the primary vortices are noticeable in the flow-field.