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Vortical Flow and Diagnostics Lab

This lab develops advanced laser instrumentation for high speed and high Reynolds number flow studies.  The research is motivated by its relevance to several sponsors including industry and government organizations. We specialize in particle-based instrumentation including advanced laser-Doppler velocimetry, Doppler global velocimetry, and custom fluorescent particle scalar techniques. Recent applications of our instruments and studies have included supersonic jet noise reduction, wind turbine boundary layer aerodynamics, and bluff body flameholder studies.

  • Camera for Jet Noise

    Illustration of inner workings of Camera for Jet Noise

    Camera for Jet Noise: Key development: 10 MHz camera for eddy convection.

  • Todd Lowe, Wing Ng, and Tobias Ekker, Engine Study

    Todd Lowe, Wing Ng, and Tobias Ekker, Engine Study

    Tobias Ekker, Wing Ng, and Todd Lowe at work by the Virginia Tech hot jet.

  • Labeled Jet

    Photo with Labeled parts of Jet engine

    Labeled Jet

  • Jet Noise Highlights

    graph with levels of Jet Noise Highlights, arrows to supersonic eddies

    Jet Noise Highlights: Results show large scale turbulence dominated by heating effects over eddy compressibility effects. Opportunities exist to reduce eddy speeds. Eddy speed measurement: Supersonic eddies (white, yellow, and orange) radiate most.

  • Measured Swirl Vectors

    graphic illustration of Measured Swirl Vectors

    Measured Swirl Vectors: In-Plane Velocity Field. Results show the ability to generate swirl largely decoupled from engine operation and total pressure distortion. Measurements being used to improve fan performance for swirl distortion.

  • Swirl Fan Performance

    graphic illustration of Swirl Fan Performance

    Swirl Fan Performance: Swirl Angle [deg.]. Results show the ability to generate swirl largely decoupled from engine operation and total pressure distortion. Measurements being used to improve fan performance and swirl distortion.