Abstract
Vortex generators (VG) are passive flow control devices used for avoiding or delaying the separation of the boundary layer by bringing momentum from the higher layers of the fluid towards the surface. The Vortex generator usually has the same height as the local boundary layer thickness, and these Vortex generators can produce overload drag in some cases. The aim of the present study was to analyze the characteristics and path of the primary vortex produced by a single rectangular vortex generator on a flat plate for the incident angles of β = 10 ∘ , 15 ∘ , 18 ∘ and 20 ∘ . A parametric study of the induced vortex was performed for six VG heights using Reynolds average Navier–Stokes equations at Reynodls number R e = 27,000 based on the local boundary layer thickness, using computational fluid dynamics techniques with OpenFOAM open-source code. In order to determine the vortex size, the so-called half-life radius was computed and compared with experimental data. The results showed a similar trend for all the studied vortex generator heights and incident angles with small variations for the vertical and the lateral paths. Additionally, 0.4H and 0.6H VG heights at incident angles of β = 18 ∘ and β = 20 ∘ showed the best performance in terms of vortex strength and generation of wall shear stress.
Highlights
In the last few decades, several flow control devices have been developed, and some of them were installed onto wings in order to improve aerodynamic efficiency
The primary vortex lateral and vertical path produced by Vortex generators (VG) have a key role in the momentum mixing performance
The primary vortex generated by a single vane-type vortex generator (VG) has been characterized
Summary
In the last few decades, several flow control devices have been developed, and some of them were installed onto wings in order to improve aerodynamic efficiency. At present, this type of elements is being optimized by researchers to be introduced in wind turbines. Wood [1] for the classification of the different types of flow control devices. Wood classified the control devices as active or passive, geometric or fluidic, steady or unsteady, and attached or separated devices. Flow control devices can be categorized as active or passive; this classification depends on their operating principle, see Aramendia et al [2,3] and Barlas et al [4]. Passive control techniques would represent an improvement in turbine efficiency and load reduction without external energy consumption
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
