Three-dimensional vortex modeling of unforced transverse jets

The present computational study focuses on the mechanisms for the dynamical generation and evolution of vorticity associated with the jet in crossflow, with special focus on nearfield flow evolution and the generation of the counter-rotating vortex pair (CVP) observed to dominate the jet cross-section. Transient numerical simulations of the flowfield are performed using three-dimensional vortex elements. Vortex ring rollup, interactions, tilting, and folding are observed in the nearfield, consistent with the ideas described in the experimental work of Kelso et al. (1996), for example. The time-averaged effect of these jet shear layer vortices, even over a single period of their evolution, is seen to result in initiation of the CVP: Insight into the topology of the flowfield, the formation of wake vortices and the entrainment of crossflow is also provided in this study. Further details on the complete study may be found in Cortelezzi & Karagozian (2001).