Flow visualization of vortex structure in a pulsed rectangular jet

Pulsating jet is visualized using hydrogen bubble method to clarify the vortex nature in the near field of the jet. This study focused on the development in space and time of vortex structures evolution in low aspect-ratio rectangular jet with pulsation. Pulsation means large-amplitude, low-frequency excitation which is expected to increase the mixing and spreading of the jet and to accelerate its transition from a rectangular form to an axisymmetric form. It was deemed appropriate to investigate whether jet characteristics of a pulsating, submerged jet flow can be altered by including pulsations. The difference of the vortex deformation process is discussed in relation to pulsating conditions. Consequently, the pulsation leads to the formation of vortices at regular intervals, which are larger than those occurring in a steady jet. The results show that the streamwise interaction, between leading vortex and trailing vortex rolled up at nozzle lips, strengthens with increasing pulsating frequency. The spanwise drift of the vortex becomes strongly apparent at large amplitude and high frequency conditions. The drifting start position does not change regardless of pulsating condition. The convection velocity of vortex increases at lower frequency and larger amplitude.