Validation procedure for the analysis of shock-wave/boundary-layer interaction problems

We deal with the validation of hypersonic flow simulation in the presence of strong shock-wave/ boundary-layer interaction phenomena. In particular, we have discussed the meaning of validation from a numerical and experimental point of view and have shown the consistency requirements that must always be satisfied when performing a numerical simulation. The equations solved are the Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations with an algebraic turbulence model. The method employs a Runge-Kutta finite-volume formulation with symmetric discretization of both inviscid and viscous fluxes. The technique has been applied to analyze shock-wave/boundary-layer interactions and their effects on heating rates, peak heating location, and separation extent