3-DIMENSIONAL VORTEX DYNAMICS IN A SHEAR-DRIVEN RECTANGULAR CAVITY

We investigate the vortical flow structure which has evolved in a rect angular cavity defined by a depth-to-width aspect ratio of 1:1 and a s pan-to-width aspect ratio of 3:1. The vortical system of interest cons ists of a dominant eddy, secondary motions, and spiraling spanwise mot ion. The objective of this study was to broaden knowledge of: 1) how t he Taylor-Gortler vortices emerge and modify the flow structure; 2) wh y the left vortex differs from its right counterpart in each unsymmetr ic pair of TGL vortices. Most importantly, the intent of this study is to discuss the formation of flow instabilities from the energy standp oint.