Two-dimensional boundary layer receptivity to finite periodic disturbances

Receptivity is the focus and frontier of the research on boundary layer transition and flow drag reduction, but the temporal and spatial evolution of Tollmien–Schlichting waves (T-S waves) is not yet fully investigated, limiting the development of highly efficient laminar flow control techniques. In the present study, the local receptivity problem of the laminar boundary layer on a zero-pressure-gradient flat plate is investigated by using the direct numerical simulation, considering both the temporal and spatial evolution characteristics of the T-S waves. External disturbances at fixed frequencies are introduced in the form of velocity pulsations with different periods to excite T-S waves. The temporal and spatial evolution characteristics of the T-S waves excited by different forms and periods of disturbances are studied. It is found that the amplitude, frequency, and wave velocity of the T-S wave induced by the external multi-period disturbances are different from those induced by the constant disturbances. These conclusions are the same as those of T-S wave induced by wall inhalation. After a further investigation on this particular phenomenon, the influence mechanism of external disturbances on the receptivity process is revealed. This new research finding enriches the instability theory and provides a reference for more efficient applications on active laminar flow control technologies.