A Simple Approach to the Theory of Secondary Flows

Abstract

SummaryA simple method is developed for computing the trailing vorticity which arises when a non-uniform stream is turned.It is shown that, for a sudden and constant deflection of a non-uniform stream, no net trailing vorticity is set up in the exit flow and hence there is no secondary motion.In the case of an impulse cascade of finite dimensions with constant turning, it is found that the trailing vorticity has three distinct components—the passage vorticity and two components which appear as vortex sheets springing from the trailing edges of the aerofoils. It is shown that for small angles of deflection there is no net circulation associated with the trailing vorticity downstream, of the cascade, and it is inferred that this should still be so for large deflections.