Structure of vorticity and turbulence fields in a separated flow around a finite wing: Analysis using direct numerical simulation

Abstract

This study investigates the flow physics in some of the most inhomogeneous and complex regions of a separated flow around a wing tip and the near wake. The region is highly convoluted, strongly three-dimensional, multiscale, and far from being self-similar. We elucidate the early formation mechanisms of vortices close to the leading edge and investigate the intensification/suppression mechanisms of the different types of vortical structures as they evolve in space. The production of turbulent kinetic energy and Reynolds stresses is also investigated and discussed in conjunction with the identified vortex patterns.