The capability of streamwise riblets to reduce skin friction in turbulent boundary layers has been well-documented at high Reynolds numbers. Yet, their fundamental mechanisms in controlling separation bubbles in low-Re compressor cascades are still poorly understood. This study employs direct numerical simulation (DNS) based on the Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM) to investigate how bio-inspired streamwise riblets alter the dynamics of laminar separation bubbles in a compressor cascade at Re = 0.9 × 10⁵. Rectangular riblets, inspired by shark denticle morphology, are arrayed along the suction surface. Results reveal that riblets induce an earlier onset of separation but significantly shorten the laminar separation bubble by 32 % through promoting earlier shear layer reattachment. A key finding in the baseline smooth case is the identification of a novel mechanism for streamwise vortex formation: secondary vortices generate between shedding roll-ups and develop into streamwise vortices via mutual attraction and wrapping. Riblets alter this process by generating strong counter-rotating streamwise vortex pairs within the riblet valleys, enhancing coherence and delay dissipation of shedding vortices. This stabilization is accompanied by a 53 % reduction in spanwise velocity fluctuations and a redistribution of Reynolds stresses. Consequently, total pressure loss is reduced by 4 %, attributed to modulated vortex dynamics rather than classical shear stress suppression. This work establishes a “dual regulatory mechanism”, wherein riblets simultaneously destabilize the shear layer to promote transition and stabilize vortical structures to prolong their coherence, as a new theoretical framework that extends their role beyond passive drag reduction.
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