Boundary layer flow control using the method of spanwise mean velocity gradient

etc15 Tracking Number 427

Over the last decade wind tunnel experiments and numerical simulations have shown that steady spanwise mean velocity gradients are able to attenuate the growth of different types of boundary layer disturbances if introduced in a controlled way. In this paper different techniques to setup the spanwise mean velocity variations are reviewed and their stabilizing effect leading to transition delay are quantified. This control strategy has potential to lead to an unforeseen positive impact on the broad spectrum of industrial applications where reducing drag is a daily challenge.