The Interaction of Coherent Vortices With Short Flat Plates (Data Bank Contribution)

Abstract

The interaction between a vortex and a small plate, are studied experimentally in a water tunnel using a computer-controlled laser-Doppler velocimeter. The interaction is proved to be a strong source of secondary and tertiary vorticity, the formation of which can be controlled by a selection of the plate dimensions, and cross-sectional shape. It is demonstrated that shorter plates with sharp edges are more efficient in breaking up oncoming vortical structures, while they create lower levels of secondary and tertiary vorticity. Such devices could be employed to control the amplitude of pressure fluctuations and the generation of noise in many practical applications.