Numerical Investigation of Active Flow Control Around a Generic Truck A-Pillar

Abstract

Large Eddy Simulations (LES) are conducted to study the actuated flow field around a bluff body. The model is a simplified section of a truck. The aim of the work is to model the separation of the flow acting at the front rounded corners, the so called A-pillars, and to minimize the separation of the flow by means of Zero Net Mass Flux synthetic jets. LES data show the interaction of the flow main structures, the separation mechanism and the effects of the actuation on the flow field. The flow is post processed using modal and frequency decompositions. Relevant results in terms of drag reduction were observed for the actuated flow. The principle flow mechanisms are discussed and an optimal actuation frequency, in terms of induced fluctuations and drag reduction, is identified.