An experimental investigation of underexpanded jets from oval sonic nozzles

Abstract

 Underexpanded jets from oval sonic nozzles were experimentally studied for various pressure ratios up to 20.3. The results revealed that the barrel type of shock structure was present only in the major axis plane except at low aspect ratios. The results also revealed that the jet spreading rate in the minor axis plane of the nozzle was much higher compared to that in the major axis plane, resulting in axis switching of jets. The cross sectional area of these jets were considerably higher compared to the axisymmetric jets indicating higher interface area for viscous mixing in the near field region and increased mixing in the far field region clear of shock structure.