Reynolds Number Dependence of Zero Pressure Gradient Turbulent Boundary Layers Including Third-Order Moments and Spatial Correlations

Abstract

Measurements were made in zero pressure gradient turbulent boundary layers on a smooth wall, at momentum thickness Reynolds numbers, ranging from 800 to 6340. The experiments were conducted in a recirculating water tunnel. Two-component velocity profiles were acquired using laser Doppler velocimetry at five streamwise stations and three different freestream velocities. Velocity field measurements were acquired using particle image velocimetry in streamwise-wall normal and streamwise–spanwise planes. Profiles of mean velocity and turbulence statistics including the Reynolds normal and shear stresses, and triple products of the velocity fluctuations are presented in both inner and outer coordinates. Variations in the profiles at representative distances from the wall are presented and quantified as functions of Reynolds number. The triple products are explained in terms of transport of Reynolds stresses though motions associated with quadrant analysis, and variation with Reynolds number is consistent with that of Reynolds stresses. The structure of turbulence was considered through two-point correlations of the fluctuations in velocity fields. In general, the shape and inclination angles of the structures did not change with Reynolds number, but some streamwise and spanwise growth was observed as Reynolds number increased.