Flow developments above 50-deg sweep delta wings with different leading-edge profiles

The characteristics of flow developments above 50-deg sweep delta wings with different leading-edge profiles are shown by flow visualizations and velocity measurements. The Reynolds number based on freestream velocity and root chord is about 7 × 10³. The leading-edge profiles studied include the shapes of square, round, windward surface beveling, leeward surface beveling, and wedge. Based on the velocity data obtained along the leading edges of the delta wings it is noted that the flow angles associated with the separated shear layers vary with the leading-edge profiles studied. This finding infers that varying the leading-edge profile has an impact on the initial development of the separated shear layer, consequently, the formation of leading-edge vortex. Furthermore, it is shown that the leading edge of windward beveling causes the largest leading-edge flow angle and produces the most organized leading-edge vortex.