Infrared imaging and tufts studies of boundary layer flow regimes on a NACA 0012 airfoil

A study of boundary-layer flow regimes on a NACA 0012 airfoil from zero angle of attack up to separation is presented. The boundary-layer transition from the laminar to the turbulent regime and the onset of the separation were detected by surface thermography of the airfoil performed with an infrared imaging system. The findings were compared with observations of aluminum-foil tufts visible with the infrared imaging system. This arrangement allows the infrared imaging system to assume the dual role of flow regime detection through surface thermography and flow visualization through the observation of the aluminum-foil tufts. Ultimately the temperature history on an uncontaminated surface could provide an interpretation of the state of boundary-layer flow. Separation studies performed on the NACA 0012 airfoil showed that aluminum foil tufts can be observed with infrared imaging systems.