Analysis of boundary layer characteristics in supergravitational turbulent thermal convection

Abstract

We investigate the boundary layer characteristics within annular centrifugal Rayleigh–Bénard convection (ACRBC) considering a Rayleigh number Ra∈[108,1011], a Prandtl number Pr = 10.7, and an inverse Rossby number Ro−1=16. Our study is based on the temperature and velocity data obtained from direct numerical simulations. Different from the flow over a flat plate, the ACRBC system bifurcates into three regions: the plume-impacting regions, plume-ejecting regions, and plume-sweeping regions, and all three regions are moving with the zonal flow. Our focus is primarily on the temperature dynamics within the plume-sweeping region, where the wind of large-scale circulation shears the boundary. We determine the transient thermal boundary layer thickness over time using the slope method, relying on the temperature curve's orientation relative to the wall. Notably, the probability density function distribution of the thermal boundary layer thickness is reminiscent of traditional RBC systems, albeit with a more extended exponential tail. Employing a dynamic frame based on time resampling, we discern that the temperature boundary layer traits align with the Prandtl–Blasius boundary layer theory. In conclusion, we show that the exponential decay index for the thermal boundary layer thickness harmonizes with the system's heat transfer scaling law. It is found that the ratio between the inner and outer boundary layer thickness remains stable, providing theoretical guidance for the design and control of the internal flow field of high-speed rotating machinery.