Effect of Spanwise System Rotation on Spatially Developing Dean Vortices

Abstract

SUMMARYThree-dimensional spatially developing Navier-Stokes calculations are carried out to simulate the flow in a curved, rotating channel. The competition between centrifugal and Coriolis forces, expressed by the ratio of the Dean number to the rotation number, gives rise to a variety of possible instability modes characterized by the presence of streamwise vortices. Cases in which the force produced by system rotation enhances or opposes the centrifugal force are treated and the effect on the ensuing instability are analysed. Evidence for a generalized Eckhaus instability of rotating Dean vortices is presented.