Investigating the unsteady flow mechanism at the lip of a ducted fan in crosswind

The unsteady numerical analysis method was utilized to investigate the unsteady flow structure of a contra-rotating ducted fan under crosswind conditions. The development and evolution mechanism of the lip vortex under the combined action of crosswind and rotor were studied. Two perspectives, namely the time-averaged flow field and unsteady time-frequency analysis, were employed for the examination. The results indicate that the unsteady aerodynamic forces exerted on the lip of the ducted fan are primarily influenced by four sets of frequencies, ranked in descending order of magnitude: 1 BPF (Blade Passing Frequency) of the upstream rotor, 1 BPF of the downstream rotor, the combined effect of the 1 BPF of the upstream rotor and 1 BPF of the downstream rotor, and 2 BPF of the upstream rotor. The maximum velocity occurs at the position where the inner surface of the windward side lip is inclined 40° from the freestream velocity direction, and a stable separation vortex is formed below this region. The lip separation vortex triggers the generation of blade suction side separation vortex in the upstream rotor, and its periodic formation, growth, shedding, and dissipation are the primary factors contributing to the unsteady flow. The research findings lay the groundwork for further advancements in active and passive flow control technologies under crosswind conditions.