Calculation and measurement of separated turbulent boundary layers

An inverse integral prediction method for the development of separated turbulent boundary layers developed from the lag-entrainment method is described. The inverse method uses the concept of equilibrium separated boundary layer flows and the predicted characteristics of such flow is compared with measurements. The data were obtained with a single-component laser Doppler anemometer set up to measure streamwise components of mean velocity and turbulence intensity. One pair of profiles of the mean velocity and turbulence intensity normal to the wall was obtained. Shear stresses were not measured but values estimated using the data in conjunction with the differential momentum equation are shown. Predicted values of momentum thickness agree with the measured values but the calculation predicts a pressure rise in the separated region whereas the pressure is almost constant in the experiment.