Review of recent experimental studies of the shock train flow field in the isolator

Abstract

Since the concept of hypersonic flight was proposed, progress of the related theory, experiments and simulations has been gained. As an important component of the scramjet engine, the isolator plays a key role in the engine performance and flight success. The flow mechanism it involves is very complicated. In the view point of experimental research, this paper reviews the recent progress of scramjet isolator studies, analyzes the features of the isolator flow based on fine flow diagnosis technique (nano-tracer planar laser scattering, NPLS), including the three-dimensional structures of the shock train flow field, turbulent characteristics, hysteresis motions, unstart flow and shock train leading edge detection. Studies of the isolator flow can be classified and discussed according to the wind tunnel facility, isolator design and measurement techniques. Based on this, suggestions for further research can be proposed.