The structure of a three-dimensional tip vortex at high Reynolds numbers

The tip vortex structure of a 3D hydrofoil at high Reynolds number was measured experimentally in both the 48 in.-diameter water tunnel and the 48 in.-wind tunnel at the Applied Research Laboratory, Penn State. The flow on and near the hydrofoil was measured in both facilities using a number of flow visualization techniques and laser velocimetry. The downstream tip vortex was measured with a three-component laser velocimeter at a number of streamwise positions. A detailed planar mapping of the flow in the water tunnel was completed near the region of cavitation inception. The effect of roughness on the downstream tip vortex was investigated.