Computational Analysis of Particle-Laden Flows Approaching Hypersonic Vehicles

One hazard to hypersonic vehicles are hydrometeors, including rain, snow, and ice particles, which can impact and damage the vehicle at high speeds. Liquid droplets also tend to disintegrate into a mist that can cause further damage. In this study, a cloud of solid particles ([Formula: see text] in diameter) approaching a double wedge at Mach 7.0 is considered to predict the interaction between the shocked flowfield and the particles before impact. Probability density functions are generated for Mach number, distance, and Weber number along three distinct regions of the shock structure: the separation region (boundary layer), oblique, and bow shocks. The results show that the intersection of the region behind the oblique shock and the bow shock exhibits the highest particle concentration and Weber number. Large particles ([Formula: see text]) in this region are the most prone to breakup, where they are exposed to Mach numbers varying between 1.5 and 2.5, and distance varying from 1 to 6 mm from the wall. Trajectory plots of individual particles indicated that the particles get trapped and transported to the wall by swirling vortices in the subsonic boundary layer. This study further provides realistic initial conditions for direct numerical simulation of isolated liquid droplets.