Flow structure due to hexagonal cavities and bumps on a plate surface

Abstract

We present the results of flow visualization and velocity measurements on a hexagonal structured surface. Several configurations with concave and convex hexagonal structures are investigated. Each hexagonal structure is 2.7 mm deep and 33 mm wide (width between flats) and has a height to diameter ratio of 0.05 based on equivalent diameter. Considered are flow velocities 19 m/s, 24 m/s, and 27 m/s. The flow bifurcates on the leading edge of the concave configuration into two counter rotating vortices and propagates further in streamwise direction. The circulating regions are identified by the peaks in r.m.s. velocity curves. In case of concave configuration, the flow splits up into counter rotating vortical structures in a vertical plane parallel to the flow. The lower vortex rotating in the opposite direction of the flow cause the oil film fringes to drift upstream. Complex circulating regions similar to the arrangement of slices in an orange can be observed on the trailing edge of the concave hexagonal structure.