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Linear instability of low Reynolds number massively separated flow around three NACA airfoils

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  15 December 2016

W. He Open the ORCID record for W. He [Opens in a new window] ,
R. S. Gioria ,
J. M. Pérez  and
V. Theofilis Open the ORCID record for V. Theofilis [Opens in a new window]
W. He*
Affiliation:
School of Aeronautics, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Pza. Cardenal Cisneros 3, E28040 Madrid, Spain
R. S. Gioria
Affiliation:
Escola Politécnica, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Mello Moraes 2373, 05508-900, São Paulo, Brazil
J. M. Pérez
Affiliation:
School of Aeronautics, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Pza. Cardenal Cisneros 3, E28040 Madrid, Spain
V. Theofilis
Affiliation:
School of Engineering, University of Liverpool, The Quadrangle, Browlow Hill, Liverpool L69 3GH, UK
*
†Email address for correspondence: w.he@alumnos.upm.es
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Abstract

Two- and three-dimensional modal and non-modal instability mechanisms of steady spanwise-homogeneous laminar separated flow over airfoil profiles, placed at large angles of attack against the oncoming flow, have been investigated using global linear stability theory. Three NACA profiles of distinct thickness and camber were considered in order to assess geometry effects on the laminar–turbulent transition paths discussed. At the conditions investigated, large-scale steady separation occurs, such that Tollmien–Schlichting and cross-flow mechanisms have not been considered. It has been found that the leading modal instability on all three airfoils is that associated with the Kelvin–Helmholtz mechanism, taking the form of the eigenmodes known from analysis of generic bluff bodies. The three-dimensional stationary eigenmode of the two-dimensional laminar separation bubble, associated in earlier analyses with the formation on the airfoil surface of large-scale separation patterns akin to stall cells, is shown to be more strongly damped than the Kelvin–Helmholtz mode at all conditions examined. Non-modal instability analysis reveals the potential of the flows considered to sustain transient growth which becomes stronger with increasing angle of attack and Reynolds number. Optimal initial conditions have been computed and found to be analogous to those on a cascade of low pressure turbine blades. By changing the time horizon of the analysis, these linear optimal initial conditions have been found to evolve into the Kelvin–Helmholtz mode. The time-periodic base flows ensuing linear amplification of the Kelvin–Helmholtz mode have been analysed via temporal Floquet theory. Two amplified modes have been discovered, having characteristic spanwise wavelengths of approximately 0.6 and 2 chord lengths, respectively. Unlike secondary instabilities on the circular cylinder, three-dimensional short-wavelength perturbations are the first to become linearly unstable on all airfoils. Long-wavelength perturbations are quasi-periodic, standing or travelling-wave perturbations that also become unstable as the Reynolds number is further increased. The dominant short-wavelength instability gives rise to spanwise periodic wall-shear patterns, akin to the separation cells encountered on airfoils at low angles of attack and the stall cells found in flight at conditions close to stall. Thickness and camber have quantitative but not qualitative effect on the secondary instability analysis results obtained.

JFM classification

Boundary Layers: Boundary layer separation Instability: Instability Instability: Transition to turbulence
Type
Papers
Information
Journal of Fluid Mechanics , Volume 811 , 25 January 2017 , pp. 701 - 741
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© 2016 Cambridge University Press 

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