Propulsive-jet flow field analysis using the three-dimensional Navier-Stokes equations

A three-dimensional Navier-Stokes code has been applied to the analysis of flow fields containing propulsive jets. Specifically, the application was made to a flow field containing a supersonic jet injected at an angle of 90 degrees to a subsonic free stream. Although wind tunnel data were available, the computational results were not readily comparable to the experimental data because of significant differences between the two plume trajectories. Reasons for the differences are suggested in the report and include: (1) incomplete convergence, (2) inadequate grid resolution in the high gradient regions, and (3) use of a low-order turbulence closure model.