Optimization and application of riblets for turbulent drag reduction

Riblet surfaces have been tested in boundary layers having different upstream histories and at higher Reynolds numbers than previously reported. The drag reduction for the riblet surfaces was found to be dependent on the height and spacing of the riblets in law-of-the-wall variables regardless of the free-stream Reynolds number or upstream boundary-layer history. Micro-photographs of the actual riblet geometries are examined to determine the effect of rib details on the riblet drag-reduction performances. To further increase drag-reduction performance, riblet surfaces are combined with another drag-reduction concept, the large-eddy breakup device (LEBU). In addition, the yaw sensitivity of riblets is evaluated, as well as the characteristics of riblet surfaces manufactured out of a thin vinyl sheet.