Mean flow analysis and pressure evaluation by means of PIV in transonic baseflow

Abstract

During atmospheric ascent, flow separation at the base of launch vehicles gives rise to aerodynamic buffeting across the surface of the nozzle (baseflow buffeting). As a result the nozzle experiences fluctuating loads that cause large bending moments which need to be accounted for during its design. Baseflow buffeting prevents the use of new more efficient nozzle designs. Hence current research is geared towards gaining a better understanding of the phenomenon so that an effective means of reducing the intensity of buffeting can be developed. In order to contribute to the ongoing research the current project explores the potential of studying baseflow with a newly emerging technique which attempts to evaluate pressure from PIV data.