Numerical prediction of unsteady vortex shedding for large leading-edge roughness. (Q1430680)

A full two-dimensional Navier-Stokes algorithm is used to investigate unsteady viscous flow past an airfoil leading edge with large-scale surface roughness that is characteristic of early ice accretion. The focus of this work is a detailed flow analysis of the roughness-induced velocity fluctuations and vortex shedding. The results are compared to experimental data on roughness-induced transition for the same roughness geometries. The key findings are summarized as follows: a) The current Navier-Stokes algorithm is capable of predicting unsteady velocity fluctuations and vortex shedding induced by large-scale roughness; b) The calculated fluctuation intensity values show reasonable correspondence with experimental turbulence intensity values for the roughness and Reynolds numbers investigated.