Control of the Laminar-Turbulent Transition in a Three-Dimensional Boundary Layer under Elevated External Turbulence Using Dielectric Barrier Discharge

Abstract

The results of experimental study of the effect the dielectric barrier discharge (DBR) actuator on the laminar-turbulent transition in a three-dimensional boundary layer under the influence of elevated free-stream turbulence are presented. Traveling cross-flow instability modes dominate in the transition to turbulence in the base boundary layer. Their characteristics are independent of the spanwise position. The DBR actuator that generates stationary longitudinal vortices with a predefined spanwise wavelength when turned on is able to lower the production rate of turbulent spots in comparison with the base regime.