Experimental Investigation of Several Neutrally-Buoyant Bubble Generators for Aerodynamic Flow Visualization.
Abstract
Small, neutrally-buoyant soap bubbles have been used very effectively for mapping out low-speed aerodynamic flows, typically at velocities up to 50 fps. As opposed to conventional methods, such as smoke, they can accurately trace in detail turbulent and highly-sheared air motions. The objective of this investigation was to explore the feasibility of flow visualization with bubbles at velocities as high as 300-400 fps. The low-speed bubble generating device, or head, was tested first to supply the basis for designing a head for creating and implanting bubbles in higher-velocity airstreams. A prototype higher-speed head was then designed, fabricated and tested, both in-house and in a small Government wind tunnel. With this head, bubbles were accelerated to appreciably higher velocities than before and show promise of further improvements with continued development. Future requirements for bringing this technique to practical use are outlined and suggested approaches are proposed. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1969
- Accession Number
- AD0717390
Entities
People
- D. E. Ordway
- P. Tan
- R. W. Hale