Algebraic model of turbulent boundary layer on a convex curvilinear surface

Abstract

A simple algebraic model of turbulent boundary layer on convex curvilinear surfaces is suggested that is based on the generalization of the two-layer one-parameter algebraic model for a flat plate [ 1 ]. The model is tested in a wide range of variation of the curvature parameter (0.01 ≤ δ₀/R _w ≤ 0.09, where δ₀ is the thickness of the boundary layer at the initial cross section of the curvilinear region andR _w is the curvature radius of the surface), the results of which are indicative of a good agreement between the experimental and calculated data on the integral characteristics of the boundary layer, namely, the friction coefficientC _f , the displacement thickness δ^* and momentum thickness δ^**, and the form parameterH = δ^*/δ^**. Based on the comparison between the calculated and experimental data on the distribution of tangential turbulent stresses, a conclusion is made that the model predicts a much lower effect of the curvature on the suppression of turbulence in the outer region of boundary layers at a mild curvature of the surface (δ ₀ /R _w = 0.01) than in experiments. However, this difference has a tendency to decrease as the surface curvature increases. An analysis of the calculated and experimental velocity profiles plotted in the variables of the wall law leads to a conclusion that the generalized Townsend wall law is partially realized on a curvilinear surface.