Published online by Cambridge University Press: 04 July 2016
The classic problem of stability and transition toturbulence of an incompressible flow over a flatplate subjected to uniform suction through thesurface is considered. This is an important “model”problem for laminar flow control and the resultshave direct application to the design of low dragaerofoils. Detailed mean boundary layer calculationsare presented and the flow stability is determinedby obtaining numerical solutions of theOrr-Somerfield equation. Transition conditions areestimated by using the semi-empirical en method.Accurate values have been obtained for the levels ofsuction necessary to delay instability andtransition indefinitely. Consideration has also beengiven to the effect of surface suction upon theplate drag.