A local sensor for joint temperature and velocity measurements in turbulent flows.

Abstract

We present the principle for a micro-sensor aimed at measuring local correlations of turbulent velocity and temperature. The operating principle is versatile and can be adapted for various types of flow. It is based on a micro-machined cantilever, on the tip of which a platinum resistor is patterned. The deflection of the cantilever yields an estimate for the local velocity, and the impedance of the platinum yields an estimate for the local temperature. The velocity measurement is tested in two turbulent jets: one with air at room temperature which allows us to compare with well-known calibrated reference anemometers, and another one in the GReC jet at CERN with cryogenic gaseous helium which allows a much larger range of resolved turbulent scales. The recording of temperature fluctuations is tested in the Barrel of Ilmenau which provides a controlled turbulent thermal flow in air. Measurements in the wake of a heated or cooled cylinder demonstrate the capability of the sensor to display the cross correlation between temperature and velocity correctly.