Experiments with three-dimensional riblets as an idealized model of shark skin |
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Authors: | D W Bechert M Bruse W Hage |
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Institution: | (1) Department of Turbulence Research Institute of Propulsion Technology German Aerospace Center (DLR) Mueller-Breslau-Strasse 8 D-10623 Berlin Germany, DE |
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Abstract: | The skin of fast sharks exhibits a rather intriguing three-dimensional rib pattern. Therefore, the question arises whether
or not such three-dimensional riblet surfaces may produce an equivalent or even higher drag reduction than straight two-dimensional
riblets. Previously, the latter have been shown to reduce turbulent wall shear stress by up to 10%. Hence, the drag reduction
by three-dimensional riblet surfaces is investigated experimentally. Our idealized 3D-surface consists of sharp-edged fin-shaped
elements arranged in an interlocking array. The turbulent wall shear stress on this surface is measured using direct force
balances. In a first attempt, wind tunnel experiments with about 365,000 tiny fin elements per test surface have been carried
out. Due to the complexity of the surface manufacturing process, a comprehensive parametric study was not possible. These
initial wind tunnel data, however, hinted at an appreciable drag reduction. Subsequently, in order to have a better judgement
on the potential of these 3D-surfaces, oil channel experiments are carried out. In our new oil channel, the geometrical dimensions
of the fins can be magnified 10 times in size as compared to the initial wind tunnel experiments, i.e., from typically 0.5 mm
to 5 mm. For these latter oil channel experiments, novel test plates with variable fin configuration have been manufactured,
with 1,920–4,000 fins. This enhanced variability permits measurements with a comparatively large parameter range. As a result
of our measurements, it can be concluded, that 3D-riblet surfaces do indeed produce an appreciable drag reduction. We found
as much as 7.3% decreased turbulent shear stress, as compared to a smooth reference plate. However, in direct comparison with
2D riblets, the performance of 3D-riblets is still inferior by about 1.7%. On the other hand, it appears conceivable, with
a careful design of the fin shape (possibly supported by theory), that this inferiority in performance might be reduced. Nevertheless,
at present, it seems to be rather unlikely, that 3D-riblets can significantly outperform 2D-riblets. Finally, one interesting
finding remains to be mentioned: The optimum drag reduction for short 3D-riblets occurs at a lower rib height than for longer
3D-riblets or for infinitely long 2D-riblets. The same observation had been made previously on shark scales of different species
with differing rib lengths, but no explanation could be given.
Received: 1 March 1999/Accepted: 16 July 1999 |
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