The evolution of an impinging synthetic air jet

Abstract

Impinging synthetic jets are considered to offer great potential for many applications, including the thermal management of electronics. In this study, an experimental investigation into the evolution of an impinging synthetic air jet at a unique set of parameters has been undertaken. The transition from the near field, which comprises discrete vortices to a steady turbulent jet in the far field is an area where the flow mechanisms involved are dynamic and complex and, in some cases, poorly understood. Although numerous studies have been reported on in the literature for free synthetic jets, studies on the flow structures of an impinging synthetic air jet are limited. Even fewer studies have been performed with high frame rate particle image velocimetry (PIV). A comprehensive review of the existing literature is presented.