Redesigned swept flat-plate experiment for crossflow-induced transition studies

Abstract

In this publication the redesigned DLR swept flat-plate experiment is introduced. It is based on the well-known crossflow reference experiment by Bippes et al. and consists essentially of a swept flat plate and a displacement body arranged above it. The differences between the old and the new setup and the reasons for the redesign will be described. The experiment is used for investigations on the mechanisms leading up to crossflow-induced laminar-turbulent transition in the flat-plate boundary layer and on different actuation methods for influencing them. The main features of the 3D boundary layer flow field such as the development of crossflow instabilities and the onset of high-frequency secondary instabilities during the laminar breakdown are presented.