The interaction of longitudinal vortex pairs with a turbulent boundary layer

Abstract In this study, we demonstrate an efficient approach to investigating the interaction of vortex pairs on a turbulent boundary layer. Our aim is to assess how vortex characteristics impact the downstream flow. Wall-modelled large eddy simulations are used together with an inlet defined by a Batchelor vortex model superimposed on a turbulent boundary layer profile, generated using synthetic turbulence and a precursor Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes calculation. This set-up allows for the efficient testing of multiple configurations whilst providing adequate resolution of outer boundary layer and the vortex–vortex interactions. After validating the methodology, we report a set of simulations for both co- and counter-rotating vortex pairs at different separations and asymmetric strengths. The separation distance between the vortices was found to have a significant effect upon the merging of the vortices. Asymmetric strength vortex pairs, analogous to vortex generators in yaw, demonstrate performance independent of flow direction for small angles. Detailed analysis of this flow provides insight into turbulence generation mechanisms and Reynolds stress anisotropy – valuable reference data for the development of lower-order models. Skin-friction enhancement is shown to be more effective for counter-rotating vortex pairs than co-rotating pairs of the same strength and spacing. Additionally, a wider spacing between the initial vortex positions results in a faster rise in the skin-friction coefficient.