Study of junction and tip vortices using particle displacement velocimetry

Abstract

We describe experiments focusing on development of junction and tip vortices trailing behind a sail attached to an axisymmetric underwater body. These experiments were performed in a towing tank and involved implementation of particle displacement velocimetry. A map of the velocity at several streamwise locations was obtained, and the circulation was computed with 12-18% accuracy. The results reveal a reduction in the circulation of the junction vortex with increasing distance from the sail.