Effect of vortex generator types on flow over a baseline and tubercle wing sections

Passive flow control through leading-edge tubercles and vortex generators delays stall and enhances lift. The combined effects of these devices on the flow field and aerodynamic performance lack in-depth analysis. This study investigates the influence of three vortex generator (VG) geometries—rectangular, triangular, and a novel hybrid configuration—on baseline and tubercle-modified wing sections through Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes simulations with the k–ω shear stress transport turbulence model and complementary wind tunnel experiments at a Reynolds number of 2.74 × 105. VGs were placed at three chordwise positions (20%, 40%, and 50% chord) to assess their performance. Flow-field analysis of spanwise and chordwise vorticity distributions, along with turbulent kinetic energy contours, revealed the mechanisms by which VG-generated streamwise vortices energize the boundary layer and suppress separation. The results demonstrated that all VG types extend the stall angle by ∼3° and enhance the lift in both pre-stall and post-stall regimes. On the baseline wing, the hybrid VG at the 0.2C position delivers the maximum lift and aerodynamic efficiency across most angles of attack. In contrast, the triangular VG proves most effective in synergizing with tubercle-induced vortices to maximize lift on the tubercle wing. The hybrid configuration, however, demonstrates superior post-stall efficiency on both baseline and tubercled wing sections. These findings offer design guidance in unmanned aerial vehicles, wind turbines, and other low-speed applications where stall delay and lift enhancement are highly essential.