Low-frequency large-scale unsteadiness analysis of lateral jet interactions on a slender cylinder in hypersonic flows using fast-responding pressure-sensitive paint

Lateral jet interactions, commonly encountered in high-speed vehicles, are typical complex three-dimensional (3D) shock wave/boundary layer interactions. The spatiotemporal features of surface pressure are crucial for understanding such complex interactions. In this study, fast-responding pressure-sensitive paint measurements are implemented at a sampling rate of 3000 Hz and a spatial resolution of 0.35 mm/pixel to investigate global pressure fields in lateral jet interactions on a slender cylinder under hypersonic flow conditions. Tests are conducted at three angles of attack (0°, 5°, and 10°) and two sideslip angles (0° and 2.5°) at Mach 6 and a Reynolds number of 1.35 × 107/m. The mean pressure results indicate the presence of a 3D high-pressure region beneath the bow shock feet, the area and pressure level of which depend on the cylinder attitude. Moreover, significant low-frequency broadband unsteadiness associated with the large-scale motion of bow shock is found in the high-pressure region. Statistical, coherence, and modal analyses are performed to clarify the characteristics of the large-scale unsteadiness. The results indicate that the dominant pressure mode is induced by streamwise oscillation of the bow shock, which exhibits two subregions with opposite pressure-fluctuation variations. Furthermore, the effects of the cylinder attitude on the unsteadiness extent and intensity are discussed.