Parametric study of low-profile vortex generators. (13th July 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Martínez-Filgueira, P.; Fernandez-Gamiz, U.; Zulueta, E.; Errasti, I.; Fernandez-Gauna, B.
• Is Part Of: International journal of hydrogen energy. Volume 42:Number 28(2017)
• Page Start: 17700
• Page End: 17712
• Publication Date: 2017-07-13
• Subjects: Vortex generators -- Computational fluid dynamics -- Boundary layer -- Half-life radius -- Flow control; Hydrogen as fuel -- Periodicals; Hydrogène (Combustible) -- Périodiques; Hydrogen as fuel; Periodicals; 665.81
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2017.03.102
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0360-3199

Abstract

Abstract: Vortex generators (VGs) are flow control devices employed to avoid or delay flow separation. In most cases, the VG is calculated with the same height as the boundary layer (BL) thickness at the device position. However, these so-called conventional VGs may produce overload drag in some applications. The low-profile VGs can decrease the residual drag linked to this kind of passive flow control actuators. The main goal of the present work is to investigate the trajectory and size of the primary vortex produced by low-profile VGs on a flat plate with a height to length ratio of ½ and a vane incident angle of 18.5°. Hence, numerical simulations have been performed using Navier–Stokes equations at Re = 1350 based on the local boundary layer thickness where the VG was placed. Additionally, a prediction model has been developed to describe the progression of the vortex size behind the passive vanes. Graphical abstract: Highlights: Vortices generated by a rectangular vane-type VG on a flat plate are characterized. VG height affects the vortex size of the primary vortex generated by the VG. The computations relatively well reproduce the vortex size in scale and tendency. A prediction model has been developed to describe in a simple way the vortex size.