The effect of edge profile on delta wing flow

Abstract

This paper presents flow measurements on four delta wing configurations which are differentiated by their leading edge profiles; sharp-edged, small, medium, and large radius. The experiments were performed as a part of the European Vortex Flow Experiment-2 campaign. Tests were conducted at speeds of 20.63 m/s and 41.23 m/s representing Reynolds numbers of 1 × 106 and 2 × 106, respectively. In this paper, oil flow visualization data are presented for the four wings together with particle image velocimetry results for the large radius wing. The study has identified interesting features of the interrelationship between the conventional leading edge primary vortex and the occurrence and development of the inner vortex on the round-edged delta wings. The effects of Reynolds number, angle of attack, and leading-edge radii on both vortex systems are discussed in detail.