Scale Effects in Flows over Swept Wings.
Abstract
A review is given of current knowledge of the effects of variations in Reynolds number on the possible types of flow over a swept wing and the boundaries between them. Three main flow regimes are discussed in turn: the attached boundary layer which may be laminar or turbulent and where the position of transition is important; the thin wake which extends downstream from the trailing edge of the wing; and the regime of separated flow. Their interactions with the external flow and with each other are included. The flow structures are three-dimensional, in general, and the knowledge of such flows is patchy. Reynolds number effects are best understood where simple extensions from two dimensions can be made. The most serious gaps in understanding are found where compressibility and strong interactions are important. If these gaps could be filled model testing would be much more reliable. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1971
- Accession Number
- AD0727347
Entities
People
- M. G. Hall
Organizations
- Royal Aircraft Establishment