Wake turbulence is a misnomer. Turbulence implies a random process whereas the term 'wake turbulence' refers to the hazard posed to smaller airplanes by the ordered, rotational flow in the trailing vortex systems behind larger airplanes. This lecture begins by examining the relationship of aircraft size, geometry and operating conditions to the strength of an aircraft's trailing vortex system. Next, the velocity field initially induced close behind the generating airplane by its trailing vortex system is defined. This is followed by a discussion of the various ways in which a vortex system can dissipate and the many factors which affect the dissipation. In particular, the effects of atmospheric turbulence, ground proximity and vortex bursting on the ensuing behavior of the vortex system are considered. The paper continues with a study of the dynamics of an aircraft encountering the wake of a larger airplane. The degree to which an aircraft is threatened by a given vortex system of known characteristics is analyzed and the hazard posed by a given vortex system to a following aircraft quantified. Finally, the paper concludes with recommendations on possible ways to alleviate the safety and operational problems associated with wake turbulence.


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    Title :

    Wake Turbulence


    Contributors:

    Publication date :

    1994


    Size :

    15 pages


    Type of media :

    Report


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English




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