Calculating Flow Separation Point

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    Flow Point Separation
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the point of flow separation, particularly in the context of a diffuser on a car aimed at maximizing downforce. Participants explore theoretical approaches and relevant literature while considering practical applications in fluid dynamics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about methods to calculate the flow separation point.
  • Another participant references qualitative discussions in Tritton's and Lamb's works, noting the complexity of the problem and the condition that flow separation occurs where the normal component of flow vanishes.
  • A participant expresses interest in determining the critical angle for a car diffuser, questioning the feasibility of calculating the flow separation angle.
  • It is suggested that standard airfoil theory may be applicable for high Reynolds number flow separation, which has been studied more extensively than low Reynolds number scenarios.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on a specific method for calculating flow separation, and multiple perspectives on the applicability of existing theories and literature remain evident.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the complexity of flow separation calculations and the reliance on specific conditions such as Reynolds number, which may affect the applicability of certain theories.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in fluid dynamics, automotive engineering, and aerodynamics may find the discussion relevant, particularly those focused on flow behavior around diffusers and airfoils.

no1schuifan
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Does anyone know of a way to calculate the point at which flow separation occurs?
 
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Tritton (Physical Fluid Dynamics) has a qualitative discussion on chapter 12, and Lamb (Hydrodynamics) has a few sections as well.

The problem is extremely difficult, in the linear case separation ocurrs where the normal component of flow vanishes. This leaves open the problem of calculating the flow.
 
Thanks for your help. The reason i ask is I'm trying to find the critical angle for a diffuser on a car to produce the most downforce so being able to work out past which angle the flow separates from the diffuser is key. Do you think it is worth looking into more or am i aiming for somethign that's just unreasonable?
 
The good news is that standard airfoil theory should be sufficient for your case- high Reynolds number flow separation has been worked on a lot more than low Reynolds number separation. This may be a good place to start:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Airfoil
 

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