Abstract
In this paper, a contribution to the study of the unsteady behavior of a back-facing step flow is reported. The main interest is devoted to low-frequency motions. A probe for skin friction measurements is employed to acquire time histories from the step to downstream the reattachment region. Signals are analyzed in the physical space and in the frequency domain. The obtained results, associated with flow visualization in a companion experiment in water, support a model of cyclic motion of growing and successive breakdown of the secondary recirculating bubble. The frequency of this quasi-periodic motion is comparable to the flapping frequency of the whole separated region, reported in the literature.
This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.
Similar content being viewed by others
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Additional information
Received: 14 February 2000/Accepted: 5 September 2000
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Spazzini, P., Iuso, G., Onorato, M. et al. Unsteady behavior of back-facing step flow. Experiments in Fluids 30, 551–561 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1007/s003480000234
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s003480000234