Effects of pressure gradient on the evolution of velocity-gradient tensor invariant dynamics on a controlled-diffusion aerofoil at Re-c=150 000

Abstract

A weakly compressible flow direct numerical simulation of a controlled-diffusion aerofoil at geometrical angle of attack, a chord-based Reynolds number of and a Mach number of based on the free-stream velocity relevant to many industrial applications was conducted to improve the understanding of the impact of the pressure gradient on the development of turbulent structures. The evolution equations for the two invariants and of the velocity-gradient tensor have been studied at various locations along the aerofoil chord on its suction side. The shape of the mean evolution of the velocity-gradient tensor invariants were found to vary strongly when the flow encounters favourable, zero and advers..