Influence of internal orifice geometry on synthetic jet performance

Abstract

The periodic ingestion and ejection of fluid through an orifice yield vortex rings forming an unsteady jet. The ability to impart momentum with a zero net mass flux makes synthetic jet actuators coveted components in flow control applications. Previous studies underlined the influence of geometrical parameters on synthetic jet evolution. This investigation introduces the orifice lip ratio as a new geometric variation that can influence the performance of the jet. We assess the sensitivity of synthetic jet efficiency to this parameter. Comparisons of test configurations establish the lip ratio as a pivotal parameter and indicate noticeable differences in the exit velocity. The results also highlight the dependence of the jet formation criterion on the orifice lip ratio. The analysis conclusively demonstrates the significance of the orifice lip ratio in the design and optimisation of synthetic jet actuators.