Abstract
We analyse the currently popular vortex identification criteria that are based on pointwise analysis of the velocity gradient tensor. A new measure of spiralling compactness of material orbits in vortices is introduced and using this measure a new local vortex identification criterion and requirements for a vortex core are proposed. The interrelationships between the different criteria are explored analytically and in a few flow examples, using both zero and non-zero thresholds for the identification parameter. These inter-relationships provide a new interpretation of the various criteria in terms of the local flow kinematics. A canonical turbulent flow example is studied, and it is observed that all the criteria, given the proposed usage of threshold, result in remarkably similar looking vortical structures. A unified interpretation based on local flow kinematics is offered for when similarity or differences can be expected in the vortical structures educed using the different criteria.
Original language | English (US) |
---|---|
Pages (from-to) | 189-214 |
Number of pages | 26 |
Journal | journal of fluid mechanics |
Volume | 535 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jul 25 2005 |
Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Mechanics of Materials
- Mechanical Engineering
- Applied Mathematics