Measurements in an incompressible three-dimensional turbulent boundary layer, under infinite swept-wing conditions, and comparison with theory

First a three-dimensional turbulent boundary-layer experiment is described. This has been carried out with the specific aim of providing a test-case for calculation methods. Much attention has been paid to the design of the test set-up. An infinite swept-wing flow has been simulated with good accuracy. The initially two-dimensional boundary layer on the test plate was subjected to an adverse pressure gradient, which led to three-dimensional separation near the trailing edge of the plate. Next, a calculation method for three-dimensional turbulent boundary layers is discussed. This solves the boundary-layer equations numerically by finite differences. The turbulent shear stress is obtained from a generalized version of Bradshaw's two-dimensional turbulent shear stress equation. The results of the calculations are compared with those of the experiment. Agreement is good over a considerable distance; but large discrepancies are apparent near the separation line.