Structure of a supersonic three-dimensional cylinder/offset-flare turbulent interaction

This work examines computationally the Mach 3 flowfield structure of the external shock-wave/turbulent-boundary-layer interaction caused by a cylinder/offset-flare juncture. The theoretical model employs the full mean compressible Navier-Stokes equations. Several turbulence closures are employed, with particular emphasis placed on predictions obtained with a two-equation k-epsilon model. The calculations are validated by comparison with a range of qualitative and quantitative data, The flowfield is characterized by several of the complex features associated with three-dimensional separation, The surface pattern exhibits an intricate sequence of critical points and is analyzed in terms of its topological portrait through comparison with experimental observations. Fluid separates around the entire periphery upstream of the juncture. Near the upper symmetry plane, this separating fluid rolls up to form a horseshoe like vortical structure. The legs of this structure wrap around the juncture and are turned streamwise near the lower symmetry plane, In conjunction with the displaced oncoming boundary-layer fluid, a dual scroll-like structure is observed straddling the lower symmetry plane.