Laminar flow control and drag reduction using biomimetically inspired forward facing steps

Bhatia, D. , Li, G., Sun, J. and Wang, J. (2021) Laminar flow control and drag reduction using biomimetically inspired forward facing steps. Journal of Applied and Computational Mechanics, 7(2), pp. 752-763. (doi: 10.22055/JACM.2020.35082.2557)

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Abstract

This paper explores the use of shark-skin inspired two-dimensional forward facing steps to attain laminar flow control, delay boundary layer transition and to reduce drag. Computation Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations are carried out on strategically placed forward facing steps within the laminar boundary layer using the Transition SST model in FLUENT after comprehensive benchmarking and validation of the simulation setup. Results presented in this paper indicate that the boundary layer thickness to step height ratio (d/h), as well as the location of the step within the laminar boundary layer (x/L), greatly influence transition onset. The presence of a strategically placed forward facing step within the laminar boundary layer might damp disturbances within the laminar boundary layer, reduce wall shear stress and energize the boundary layer leading to transition onset delay and drag reduction as compared to a conventional flat plate. Results presented in this paper indicate that a transition delay of 20% and a drag reduction of 6% is achievable, thereby demonstrating the veracity of biomimicry as a potential avenue to attain improved aerodynamic performance.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Bhatia, Dr Dinesh
Authors: Bhatia, D., Li, G., Sun, J., and Wang, J.
College/School:College of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering
Journal Name:Journal of Applied and Computational Mechanics
Publisher:Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz
ISSN:2383-4536
ISSN (Online):2383-4536
Published Online:18 December 2020
Copyright Holders:Copyright © 2020 The Authors
First Published:First published in Journal of Applied and Computational Mechanics 7(2): 752-763
Publisher Policy:Reproduced under a Creative Commons License

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