Modeling of such boundary layers is complicated because the turbulence structure is not in equilibrium with the local mean flow. Our present work is examining the effect of varying Reynolds number on non-equilibrium flows using a unique pressurized wind tunnel. We have discovered new scalings for flat plate boundary layer data which show that the constants in standard turbulence models should actually be functions of Reynolds number.
Present work focuses on boundary layer separation and recovery downstream of reattachment.
The current research sponsor in this area is the Office of Naval Research. This regime encompasses many practical applications in both the technological and natural worlds. Examples are pulverized coal combustors, fast-fluidized beds, dust storms , and planet forming nebulae. Current research sponsors for this work include the NASA Microgravity Sciences Program, the Department of Energy-ASCI program, and the National Science Foundation. Recently, under the impetus of the General Electric-University Strategic Alliance Program we have turned our focus towards applying advanced measurement and modeling techniques developed for research applications to practical flows, especially gas turbines.