Visualizing three-dimensional effects of synthetic jet flow control

Abstract

This study investigates the three-dimensionality of synthetic jet flow control over a NACA 0025 profile wing using horizontal and vertical smoke wire visualization. The stalled flow in the baseline case is visualized, providing insights into the shear layer roll-up process, the transition to turbulence, and vortex shedding in the wake. In the controlled flow study, two actuation frequencies, \(F^+=1.18\) and \(F^+=11.76\), are investigated, with a focus on spanwise control authority and the role of coherent structures in flow reattachment. The results indicate that while the control is effective at the midspan over the entire chord length, its effect diminishes with increasing distance from the midspan. Both control cases result in significant spanwise velocities, observed by a contraction of the flow toward midspan. Lastly, the high-frequency actuation results in unique small-scale structures at the shear layer-freestream interface.

Graphical abstract