Published online by Cambridge University Press: 04 July 2016
The development of a new calculation method for compressible 3D boundary layers is described. The method involves a finite-difference discretisation of the governing mean-flow equations. In particular, the differencing scheme used to discretise spanwise derivatives adapts automatically to the sign of the local crossflow within the boundary layer. A plane-by-plane solution procedure in the spanwise direction enables second-order accuracy to be maintained throughout the whole flowfield. A normal coordinate scaling with the local total momentum thickness removes most of the boundary layer growth in computational space. The Cebeci-Smith algebraic turbulence model is used for the initial validation of the calculation method. A simple modification to this model is tested, involving an explicit dependence of the outer eddy viscosity on the crossflow within the boundary layer. There results a significantly improved prediction of the NLR infinite swept wing flow experiment.