Numerical investigation of supersonic flow over a parachute-like configuration including turbulent flow effects

Abstract

Numerical simulations are conducted to investigate supersonic flow over a rigid parachute-like model with a small trailing distance at a freestream Mach number of 2.0 and freestream Reynolds number of 2.04×107 m−1. Turbulent effects on the flow evolution are highlighted by comparing the laminar and Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) and detached eddy simulation (DES) predictions. The DES model can provide more accurate flow predictions both temporally and spatially than the laminar and RANS simulations. Comprehensive analyses are performed on the time sequence of instantaneous flow fields. The “pulsation” flow mode, as well as the lifecycle of vortex rings, are observed. Furthermore, although turbulent models have a minor effect on the dynamics of shock waves, they significantly alter the vortical structures. Analyses of the pressure fluctuation spectra also confirm that turbulent flows have a lower amplitude oscillation in high-frequency regions than laminar flows.