Study of buzz phenomenon using visualization of external shock structure

Abstract

An experimental study was carried out on an axisymmetric supersonic inlet with external compression in order to investigate the buzz phenomenon at different angles of attack and mass flow rates. The model was equipped with accurate and high-frequency pressure sensors, and the tests were conducted at Mach numbers varying from 1.8 to 2.5, for various angles of attack. Shadowgraph visualization technique, together with a high-speed camera, was used to provide the visual description of the shock structure in front of the inlet and to study the characteristics of buzz. Furthermore, pressure distribution over the spike surface was measured using several pressure sensors. Frequency of the buzz and shock displacement were measured by inspection of visualization pictures in each test. The obtained data from shadowgraphs were compared with those obtained from pressure measurements, and good agreement was found between them. The results revealed that for a moderate value of mass flow rate, the frequency of shock oscillation decreases as Mach number increases. Further, by increasing angle of attack, the shock displacement of oscillation will increase. At non-zero angles of attack, the displacement and frequency of shock motion show different behaviors on the leeward and windward sides of the body.