Stability patterns in plane porous Poiseuille flow with uniform vertical cross-flow: A dual approach

Abstract

In this study, we examine the effects of a porous parameter and a uniform vertical cross-flow on the onset of instability in a plane Poiseuille flow (PPF) subjected to infinitesimal disturbances. The linearized Navier-Stokes (N–S) equations, which govern the stability of the fluid flow system, are addressed using the Chebyshev collocation method (CCM). Our approach includes both modal and non-modal analyses, each providing distinct insights into the system's behavior. The modal analysis involves a linear stability assessment using both non-normalized and normalized basic velocity approaches. Assuming a constant pressure gradient, the first approach aligns with the traditional Poiseuille flow framework, where a uniform pressure difference drives the flow. This simplifies calculations and aids in predicting flow characteristics. The second approach, which varies the pressure gradient to maintain a constant maximum streamwise velocity, offers a different perspective by focusing on a specific flow velocity profile through the porous medium. This variation in the pressure gradient allows us to explore changes in flow behavior and the system's responses under these conditions. This analysis includes examining the eigenspectrum, neutral stability curves, and determining critical triplets. On the non-modal front, we explore the intricacies of the non-normal Orr-Sommerfeld (O–S) operator. This involves studying the pseudospectrum and transient energy growth rate (G(t)) plots for optimal perturbations. Identification of regions of stability, potential instability, and instability is achieved using contour plots of maximum transient energy growth (Gmax). Interestingly, our results reveal that the porous parameter acts as a stabilizing agent, mitigating instability. In contrast, the uniform vertical cross-flow plays a dual role, contributing to both stabilization and destabilization of the system. Additionally, our study highlights the impact of examining basic velocity through both normalized and non-normalized approaches, leading to different stability predictions.