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Search indexed NASA NTRS and DOE OSTI research on propulsion, heat transfer, battery materials and energy systems. Follow report and document links to the original sources.

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At least 235 records · Page 13
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2022

Accelerated Wind-Turbine Wake Recovery Through Actuation of the Tip-Vortex Instability

Advances in wind-plant control have often focused on more effectively balancing power between neighboring turbines. Wake steering is one such method that provides control-based improvements in a quasi-static way, but this does little to fundamentally change the wake recovery process, and thus, it has limited potential. This study investigates use of another control paradigm known as dynamic wake control (DWC) to excite the mutual inductance instability between adjacent tip-vortex structures, thereby accelerating the breakdown of the structures. The current work carries this approach beyond the hypothetical by applying the excitation via turbine control vectors that already exist on all modern wind turbines: blade pitch and rotor speed control. The investigation leverages a free-vortex wake method (FVWM) that allows a thorough exploration of relevant frequencies and amplitudes of harmonic forcing for each control vector (as well as the phase difference between the vectors for a tandem configuration) while still capturing the essential tip-vortex dynamics. The FVWM output feeds into a Fourier stability analysis working to pinpoint candidate DWC strategies suggesting fastest wake recovery. Near-wake length reductions of >80% are demonstrated, although without considering inflow turbulence. Analysis is provided to interpret these predictions considering the presence of turbulence in a real atmospheric inflow.

17 WIND ENERGY↗
DOE OSTI2025

Modeling and Analysis of Wind Turbine Wake Vortex Evolution Due to Time-Constant Spatial Variations in Atmospheric Flow

Modern utility-scale wind turbines are evolving toward larger, lighter, and more flexible designs to meet the growing demand for renewable energy while minimizing logistical costs. However, these advancements in lightweight design result in heightened aeroelastic sensitivity, leading to complex interactions which affect the rotor’s capacity to withstand aerodynamic loading and the cascading effects that manifest in the wake’s vortex-structure evolution under variable atmospheric conditions. In this paper, we analyze the influence of stream-wise fluctuating atmospheric flow conditions on wind turbines with large, flexible rotors through simulations of the National Rotor Testbed (NRT) turbine, located at Sandia National Labs’ Scaled Wind Farm Technology (SWiFT) facility in Lubbock, Texas. The Common Ordinary Differential Equation Framework (CODEF) modeling suite is used to simulate wind turbine aeroelastic oscillatory behavior and wind farm vortex–wake interactions for a range of conditions with spatially variant atmospheric flow. CODEF solutions for turbine operation in wind conditions featuring only one parameter fluctuation are compared to wind conditions with several wind parameter variations in combination. By isolating individual inflow variations and comparing them to multi-parameter scenarios, we determine the contributions of each atmospheric factor to rotor dynamics, wake evolution, and downstream wind farm interactions. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the effects of spatial variations in atmospheric flow on the topological evolution of wind turbine vortex wakes, which constitutes a gap in the current understanding of wind turbine wake dynamics. The insights gained from this study are particularly valuable for the development of wind farm control strategies aimed at mitigating the adverse effects of wake interactions, enhancing energy capture, and improving the overall stability of wind farm operations. With these insights, we aim to contribute to the development of modeling and simulation tools to optimize utility-scale wind power plants operating in diverse atmospheric environments.

Farrell, Alayna (ORCID:000000023555720X)↗
DOE OSTI2025

Visualizing How the Structure of Large-Radius Jets Shapes Their Wakes

The ATLAS collaboration has introduced and implemented a strategy for selecting and analyzing large-radius jets composed of skinny $R=0.2$ subjets in heavy ion collisions at the LHC. We show how measurements of these jets teach us about the resolution length $L_{\rm res}$ of quark-gluon plasma (QGP) and can teach us how jet substructure shapes the wakes that jets excite in the QGP droplets through which they pass. We use Hybrid Model calculations to reproduce measurements of $R_{AA}$ for large-radius jets in PbPb collisions, and study their dependence on the angle between the two skinny subjets involved in the final reclustering step of an $R=1$ jet. We show how these observables can constrain the value of $L_{\rm res}$ and demonstrate that the ATLAS data rule out any picture in which an entire parton shower loses energy coherently as if it were a single entity. Determining the degree to which the QGP can resolve partons within a jet is central to the broader program of using jet quenching measurements to probe QGP. We make further use of this setup by analyzing the response of the medium to the passage of large-radius $R=2$ jets containing two skinny subjets in gamma-jet events. We introduce novel jet-shape observables that allow us to visualize the angular shape of the soft hadrons originating from the wakes that wide jets with two skinny subjets excite in a droplet of QGP, as a function of the angular separation between the subjets. We find that even when they are $\sim 0.8- 1$ radian apart, a single broad wake is produced. Only when the two subjets are even farther apart is the presence of two sub-wakes revealed. We show that the way in which jet structure shapes jet wakes can be visualized with similar clarity in experiments by using only those hadrons with low $p_T$. These observables thus offer a new and distinctive way of seeing jet wakes in heavy ion collision data.

FOS: Physical sciences↗
NASA NTRS1971

Experiment S026: Ion wake measurement

Measurements of the ion-wake and electron-wake structure and other perturbations of the ambient medium produced by the Gemini spacecraft in orbit are reported. Thruster firings in the TDA-south configuration produced a decrease in the observed ion flux to the outboard ion sensor, an apparent increase in the ion flux to the inboard ion sensor, and an enhanced electron concentration to the outboard electron sensor. Visual inspection of strip-chart data was indicative that definitive wake-cone angles could be determined. It also was apparent for many cases that the electron distribution followed the ion depletion effects; this was indicative that the wake was a plasma, not an ion wake. Analysis of the data from the GATV orbits was indicative that electron and ion temperatures were higher than was estimated. The high electron temperature accounted for the sensor saturation observed during the mission. This temperature measurement was 0.3 electron volt at a 200-n. mi. altitude during daytime conditions. Spacecraft wake structure has been observed as far as 100 feet from the vehicle.

Medved, D. B.↗
NASA NTRS1974

Studies of aircraft wake chemistry and dispersion

Use of aerospace technology to study aircraft wakes is reviewed. It is shown how aerospace vehicles can be used to provide data for increased understanding of the atmosphere and of aircraft exhaust trails where knowledge is inadequate to evaluate fully the potential impact of the engine emissions. Models of aircraft near-field exhaust wakes are characterized by jet, vortex, and dispersion regimes. Wake growth in the jet regime is self-determined and rapid, whereas further spreading is inhibited in the vortex regime because of circulating vortex motion. Wake diffusion in the dispersion regime is initially influenced by aircraft induced turbulence but is dominated later by small-scale atmospheric turbulence. Computed fluid mechanical results show the importance of effects such as wake buoyancy, wind shear, turbulence, and traffic corridor exhaust buildup on dispersion of the wake. In the jet regime the exhaust characteristics and thermochemistry serve to illustrate initial chemical changes involving potential pollutant species.

Poppoff, I. G.↗
NASA NTRS1974

Measurements of supersonic jet aircraft wakes in the stratosphere

Progress is reported in an experimental program consisting of making supersonic aircraft wakes visible in the stratosphere so that photographs can be taken which yield wake dimensions vs time, and so that aircraft equipped with instruments which measure key exhaust species can find and penetrate the wakes. The object is to provide verification of fluid dynamic and chemical models. Three available models are summarized, and the experimental methods used are described. The Lockheed model predictions correspond in general most closely to experimental wake cross-sectional aerea. NO data are in reasonable agreement with NO predictions, but chemical models are relatively undeveloped, and additional measurements of exhaust products are needed before verification of chemical models becomes possible. However, the overall feasibility of wake visualization for model verification is substantiated. It is emphasized that significant model differences exist that must be resolved before reliable predictions can be made in the wake regimes studied.

Farlow, N. H.↗
NASA NTRS1976

Vortex interactions in multiple vortex wakes behind aircraft

A flow visualization technique has been developed which allows the nature of lift-generated wakes behind aircraft models to be investigated. Several different configurations of a 0.61-m span model of a Boeing 747-type transport aircraft were tested to allow observation of typical vortex interactions and merging in multiple vortex wakes. The vortices were identified by emitting tracer dyes from selected locations on the model. Wing span loading and model attitude were found to effect both vortex motions within the wake and resulting far-field wake velocity. Landing gear deployment caused a far-field reformation of vorticity behind a model configuration which dissipated concentrated vorticity in the near-field wake. A modified landing configuration was developed which appeared to significantly alleviate the concentrated wake vorticity.

Ciffone, D. L.↗
NASA NTRS1978

Some features of a wake tone flow field

An experimental investigation of a two-dimensional model of bluff body wake-surface interaction noise examines the changes in the flow field associated with changes in sound generated. Results show three distinct flow regimes separated by large differences in wake structure. In the first, with the surface in the near wake, discrete frequency sound is totally suppressed. At greater separation distances an amplified discrete frequency tone, a wake tone, is generated with the frequency a function of the separation distance. The final regime, with the surface in the far wake, is similar to a wake with no surface interaction.

Smith, C. A.↗
NASA NTRS1978

Wake flow measurements with a mobile laser Doppler velocimeter system

Wake flow measurements were conducted with a mobile laser Doppler velocimeter (LDV). The measurements included surveys of aircraft wake vortices behind a B-747 aircraft, aircraft carrier wake measurements from aboard the U.S.S. Nimitz, and tower wake measurements for a 100 kW wind turbine. Results of these tests demonstrated that a mobile ground-based LDV is a versatile and useful tool for the measurement of full-scale three-dimensional wake flows. The potential is demonstrated for utilization of this system to study complex wakes for a variety of applications.

Wilson, D. J.↗
NASA NTRS1980

Wake flowfields for Jovian probe

The wake flow field developed by the Galileo probe as it enters the Jovian atmosphere was modeled. The wake produced by the probe is highly energetic, yielding both convective and radiative heat inputs to the base of the probe. A component mathematical model for the inviscid near and far wake, the viscous near and far wake, and near wake recirculation zone was developed. Equilibrium thermodynamics were used for both the ablation and atmospheric species. Flow fields for three entry conditions were calculated. The near viscous wave was found to exhibit a variable axial pressure distribution with the neck pressure approximately three times the base pressure. Peak wake flow field temperatures were found to be in proportion to forebody post shock temperatures.

Engel, C. D.↗
NASA NTRS1980

Structure and decay characteristics of turbulence in the near- and far-wake of a moderately loaded compressor rotor-blade

The wake of a turbomachinery rotor-blade is turbulent, highly three-dimensional, and nonisotropic with appreciable curvature in the trailing-edge and near-wake regions. The characteristics of the turbulence vary considerably with radius, blade loading, free-stream turbulence, Reynolds number, and the rotor-blade geometry. This paper is concerned with the turbulence properties of a moderately loaded compressor blade, particularly near the blade trailing-edge. The tangential variation of the axial, tangential and radial intensities and stresses across the wake, as well as their decay characteristics were measured with a tri-axial hot-wire probe in the rotor frame of reference. The decay of intensities and stresses were found to be very rapid in the trailing-edge and near-wake regions and slow in the far-wake region. The effects of inlet-guide-vane and the hub-wall boundary layers on the rotor wake turbulence spectra are also discussed. Similarity rules for the three components of intensity are also derived and presented in this paper.

Ravindranath, A.↗
NASA NTRS1982

A prescribed wake rotor inflow and flow field prediction analysis, user's manual and technical approach

A user's manual is provided which includes the technical approach for the Prescribed Wake Rotor Inflow and Flow Field Prediction Analysis. The analysis is used to provide the rotor wake induced velocities at the rotor blades for use in blade airloads and response analyses and to provide induced velocities at arbitrary field points such as at a tail surface. This analysis calculates the distribution of rotor wake induced velocities based on a prescribed wake model. Section operating conditions are prescribed from blade motion and controls determined by a separate blade response analysis. The analysis represents each blade by a segmented lifting line, and the rotor wake by discrete segmented trailing vortex filaments. Blade loading and circulation distributions are calculated based on blade element strip theory including the local induced velocity predicted by the numerical integration of the Biot-Savart Law applied to the vortex wake model.

Egolf, T. A.↗
NASA NTRS1981

Interaction of compressor rotor blade wake with wall boundary layer/vortex in the end-wall region

This paper reports the experimental study of the three-dimensional characteristics of the mean velocity of the rotor wake inside the annulus- and hub-wall boundary layers. The measurements were taken with a rotating three-sensor hot wire behind the rotor. This set of measurements probably represents the first set of comprehensive measurements taken inside the annulus- and hub-wall boundary layers. The wake was surveyed at several radial locations inside the boundary layer region and at several axial locations. Interaction of the wake with the annulus-wall boundary layer, secondary flow, tip-leakage flow, and the trailing vortex system results in slower decay and larger width of the wake. The presence of a strong vortex and its merger with the wake is also observed. The end-wall boundary layers and the secondary flow were found to have a substantial effect on both the decay characteristics and the profile of the wake. These and other measurements are reported and interpreted in this paper.

Lakshminarayana, B.↗
NASA NTRS1983

Flow visualization of the wake of a transport aircraft model with lateral-control oscillations

An exploratory flow visualization study conducted in the Langley Vortex Research Facility to investigate the effectiveness of lateral control surface oscillations as a potential method for wake vortex attenuation on a 0.03 scale model of a wide body jet transport aircraft is described. Effects of both asymmetric surface oscillation (control surfaces move as with normal lateral control inputs) and symmetric surface oscillation (control surfaces move in phase) are presented. The asymmetric case simulated a flight maneuver which was previously investigated on the transport aircraft during NASA/FAA flight tests and which resulted in substantial wake vortex attenuation. Effects on the model wake vortex systems were observed by propelling the model through a two dimensional smoke screen perpendicular to the model flight path. Results are presented as photographic time histories of the wake characteristics recorded with high speed still cameras. Effects of oscillation on the wake roll up are described in some detail, and the amount of vortex attenuation observed is discussed in comparative terms. Findings were consistent with flight test results in that only a small amount of rotation was observed in the wake for the asymmetric case. A possible aerodynamic mechanism contributing to this attenuation is suggested.

Jordan, F. L., Jr.↗
NASA NTRS1985

A new approach to the free wake problem for hovering rotors

In the present approach to the hovering rotor free wake problem, an influence coefficient solution method is used to find that rotor wake solution which is steady in a reference frame that rotates with the blades; this scheme solves directly for the conditions of free wake equilibrium by a procedure that does not involve time-stepping and the associated use of numerical damping or special convergence methods. The solution method has been implemented in a hover wake computer program having a three-part wake model for the tip vortex. All three wake regions are represented by the new Basic Curved Vortex Elements. Sample hover calculations are presented for single blade and multiblade rotors.

Bliss, D. B.↗
NASA NTRS1987

A full potential flow analysis with realistic wake influence for helicopter rotor airload prediction

A 3-D, quasi-steady, full potential flow solver was adapted to include realistic wake influence for the aerodynamic analysis of helicopter rotors. The method is based on a finite difference solution of the full potential equation, using an inner and outer domain procedure for the blade flowfield to accommodate wake effects. The nonlinear flow is computed in the inner domain region using a finite difference solution method. The wake is modeled by a vortex lattice using prescribed geometry techniques to allow for the inclusion of realistic rotor wakes. The key feature of the analysis is that vortices contained within the finite difference mesh (inner domain) were treated with a vortex embedding technique while the influence of the remaining portion of the wake (in the outer domain) is impressed as a boundary condition on the outer surface of the finite difference mesh. The solution procedure couples the wake influence with the inner domain solution in a consistent and efficient solution process. The method has been applied to both hover and forward flight conditions. Correlation with subsonic and transonic hover airload data is shown which demonstrates the merits of the approach.

Egolf, T. Alan↗
NASA NTRS1987

Free wake analysis of helicopter rotor blades in hover using a finite volume technique

A fully compressible method for determining helicopter rotor wake effects is described which computes the wake without requiring external specification of the wake, or separate computations for the wake and blade region. The method is a modification of a compressible finite volume Potential Flow technique, and it has been implemented in a program, HELIX I, for computing compressible rotor flow fields in hover with free wakes. Wake positions in substantial agreement with experiment have been calculated for cases including subsonic and transonic flows, high and low aspect ratios, and two- and four-bladed rotors.

Ramachandran, K.↗
NASA NTRS1988

Flow-field Survey of an Empennage Wake Interacting with a Pusher Propeller

The flow field between a model empennage and a 591-mm-diameter pusher propeller was studied in the Ames 7- by 10-Foot Wind Tunnel with directional pressure probes and hot-wire anemometers. The region probed was bounded by the empennage trailing edge and downstream propeller. The wake properties, including effects of propeller operation on the empennage wake, were investigated for two empennage geometries: one, a vertical tail fin, the other, a Y-tail with a 34 deg dihedral. Results showed that the effect of the propeller on the empennage wake upstream of the propeller was not strong. The flow upstream of the propeller was accelerated in the streamwise direction by the propeller, but the empennage wake width and velocity defect were relatively unaffected by the presence of the propeller. The peak turbulence in the wake near the propeller tip station, 0.66 diameter behind the vertical tail fin, was approximately 3 percent of the free-stream velocity. The velocity field data can be used in predictions of the acoustic field due to propeller-wake interaction.

Horne, W. Clifton↗