Wind Tunnel Experiments of Sprayed Liquid Flaps

The Sprayed Liquid Flap (SLF) is a novel powered-lift technology that utilizes atomized liquid sprays to achieve flow control. The SLF operates under similar principles as a Jet Flap but has key differences such as 1) fluid density that is two orders of magnitude larger than the ambient air and 2) spray droplets that provide porous medium-like forces on the gas stream. This work details a recent experimental campaign aimed at confirming past numerical examinations and providing a benchmark for future efforts. The experiments were conducted in the Acoustic Wind Tunnel facility at the Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Newport. Forces and moments were measured for two angles of attack and various velocities. Our findings confirm that the multiphase interaction between the atomized droplets and freestream flow results in increased lift and reduced drag.