Numerical Simulation of Micro Vortex Generators

A computational study of the aerodynamics of vane type micro-vortex generators has been performed. Solutions of the incompressible Reynolds -Averaged Navier-Stokes equations have been obtained for a rectangular vane type micro-vortex generator mounted on a flat plate at a Reynolds number of 81,000 based upon vortex generator length. The study demonstrates the importance of resolving the detailed flow around the vortex generator. Simulations which ignore the finite thickness of the device or improperly resolve the device boundary layer are shown to produce results that are in poor agreement with the available experimental data. Comparisons of results obtained using conventional one- and two-equation turbulent closures with full Reynolds stress models highlight inherent weaknesses of conventional turbulence modeling for boundary layers containing discrete vortical structures.