Momentum Transfer in Turbulent Separated Flow Past a Rectangular Cavity

Abstract

This paper presents results of an analytical and experimental investigation aimed at describing the turbulent momentum transfer mechanism in the separated-flow region of a rectangular cavity facing an oncoming turbulent boundary layer. A flow model of the mixing region in the slot postulated on the basis of eddy diffusion in free jets gives values of velocities and drag in good agreement with the measurements. The results further point to the significant effects exerted by the oncoming boundary layer on transfer rates from the slot. Flow-visualization pictures show some interesting vortex patterns inside the cavity when height-to-width ratio is varied between values of 1 and 3.