Multi-mode instability interactions in twin jet configurations

Abstract

Twin jet configurations are prone to a wide range of interactions due to flow instabilities driven by jet self-excitation and cross-excitation of one jet on another. These instability modes and associated phases are sensitive to many parameters chief among which is the exit profile of the nozzle. Extensive studies on Twin Circular nozzles and Large Aspect Ratio (AR) Twin rectangular nozzles have shown various mode coupling but, not much is known about twin jets with moderate aspect ratios (AR < 3). This study aims to understand the effect of the exit nozzle geometry on the generation of flow instabilities by comparing a Twin Rectangular nozzle (AR 2) to a Twin Square nozzle (AR 1) with identical design parameters through experimental analysis. High speed Schlieren imaging is coupled with Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) to explore both qualitative (internal shock cell structure) and quantitative aspects (flow vorticity and turbulence) of these jets. Near field and far field acoustics are also studied to provide a wholistic understanding of the effect of mode coupling exhibited by these jets. Generation and propagation mechanisms of multi-mode instabilities which effect both nozzle orientations are also studied through Spatial and Temporal Fourier analysis.