Mixing and coherent vortices in turbulent coaxial jets

Direct numerical simulations associated with mixing in constant-density round coaxial jets are performed. They are validated by comparison against laboratory experiments. The mixing process is studied by seeding a passive tracer first in the outer annular jet, then in the inner jet. We demonstrate the important role played by coherent vortices in the mixing mechanisms. The turbulent mixing exhibits an intermittent character as a consequence of fluid ejections caused by the counter-rotating streamwise vortices. We quantify also the domination of the outer jet and show that the fluid issuing from the central jet remains confined. To cite this article: G. Balarac, M. Si-Ameur, C. R. Mecanique 333 (2005).