Wake characterization downstream of a fog collector

Abstract

The problem of wake geometry characterization downstream of a collector for getting water out of advection fog is investigated combining the results coming from wind tunnel trials and an experimental campaign in Peru ( Lomas de Mejia), where a fog collection project was running. Results from a physical model of the fog collector at a 1:100 scale tested in a wind tunnel through anemometer velocity measurements and flow visualization techniques showed, at different heights from the ground, the general direction of the flow in the vicinity of the obstacle and the extension of the downstream-disturbed area. Wind speed data collection in Peru showed the reduction in wind speed depending on its intensity. The preliminary results show the utility of such an approach in order to improve the understanding of the flow motion downstream of permeable surfaces. The possibility of spatially characterizing the wake presence has a practical utilization whenever the knowledge of the geometry of the wake downstream of an obstacle is required.