Fragmentation of waterdrops in the zone behind an air shock

Abstract

Observations made on the fragmentation of two waterdrop sizes , after collision with air shocks that were moving at three different supersonic velocities , are reported. The possible mechanisms of various aspects of the fragmentation process are discussed. The experimental observations indicate that high-speed-rain-erosion damage should not be observed on spheres having a diameter as large as 4 feet and moving with a Mach number in the range of 1. 3 to 1. 7 in rain that has a drop diameter of 1. 4 millimeter. Waterdrops of this size should be reduced to mist in the zone of separation between the detached shock and the surface of the sphere according to the results that are reported. A means to extend this protection to spheres of smaller diameter or to rain of larger size is pointed out. The need for further experimental observation of the time required for the fragmentation of waterdrops using shocks moving at higher Mach numbers is indicated to verify and extend the information .