Investigation of the role of convective velocities for turbulent spectrum reconstruction

Turbulent flows are complex patterns of fluid motion commonly encountered in nature and engineering applications. Turbulence involves various spatial and temporal scales of motion, making it challenging to measure accurately. This project aims to understand the nonlinear, multi-scale dynamics of turbulence. By utilizing an advection-based method, this work proposes a technique to enhance the temporal resolution of experimental flow measurements. This requires the generation of benchmark experimental Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) datasets to obtain detailed information about the flow’s dynamics and energy transfer mechanisms. Using space-time correlations, a method will be developed to estimate the scale-dependent velocity of the turbulent structures for use in the proposed advection model. This research has broad implications, from advancing fundamental science in turbulence to practical applications like improving wind energy models. Ultimately, the project contributes to cleaner energy solutions and improved engineering practices.

Faculty Supervisor:

Chris Morton

Student:

Partner:

Paul Scherrer Institute

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Aerospace; Green/Alternative Energy; Environmental Science and Technology

University:

McMaster University

Program: