Turbulent and mean flow measurements in an incompressible axisymmetric boundary layer with incipient separation

Fernholz and Gibson (1967) have conducted an investigation with the aim to generate a boundary layer with incipient separation and to keep it on the verge of separation over a distance of several boundary layer thicknesses downstream. The axisymmetric test section employed was particularly well suited for setting up a stable boundary layer on the verge of separation, i.e., one in which the separating velocity profiles remained fixed in space and in which the mean flow was steady. In the present investigation, a similar test section was used. The current investigation has the objective to obtain data which will complement those provided by Fernholz and Gibson. Fluctuating flow measurements are conducted, and the experiments are extended into the separation region itself. Attention is given to measurements of mean velocity profiles and of Reynolds stresses in an adverse pressure gradient boundary layer and its downstream separation region.