Evaluation of high Reynolds number flow in a 180 degree turn-around-duct

Mean and turbulent velocities were measured for the flow in a 180 degree turn-around-duct over a Reynolds number range from 600,000 to greater than 900,000. The measurements were made in water using a forward scattering laser velocimeter. A duct of 100 x 10 cm constant cross-section, with a mean radius of curvature (centerline) of 10 cm was employed for the study. The measurements are in agreement with previous studies in that the use of local bulk velocity to nondimensionalize the mean and turbulent velocities reduce the Reynolds number variations. The basic phenomenon of relaminarization along the inner surface at the exit of the turn are similar to the flow observed at low Reynolds numbers. The separation bubble region shows a systematic variation with Reynolds number, however the Reynolds number effect may be of second order in the calculation of the overall flow. Large tangential, radial, and lateral turbulent velocities are measured along the outer surface of the turn.