Scaling approaches to steady wall-induced turbulence

TL;DR

This review explores classical and modern scaling theories for steady wall-induced turbulence, emphasizing the mathematical justification of the logarithmic velocity profile and recent patch-based scaling approaches.

Contribution

It provides a detailed analysis of the Izakson-Millikan argument and introduces a new perspective on scaling patches in turbulent boundary layers.

Findings

Logarithmic velocity profile justified mathematically.

Comparison of classical and modern scaling approaches.

Clarification of the theoretical basis for turbulence profiles.

Abstract

The problem of discerning key features of steady turbulent flow adjacent to a wall has drawn the attention of some of the most noted fluid dynamicists of all time. Standard examples of such features are found in the mean velocity profiles of turbulent flow in channels, pipes or boundary layers. The aim of this review article is to expound the essence of some elementary theoretical efforts in this regard. Possibly the best known of them, and certainly the simplest, is the argument (obtained independently) by Izakson (1937) and Millikan (1939). They showed that if an inner scaling and an outer scaling for the profile are valid near the wall and near the center of the flow (or the edge of the boundary layer), respectively, and if there is an overlap region where both scalings are valid, then the profile must be logarithmic in that common region. That theoretical justification has been used and expanded upon by innumerable authors for over 60 years, and at the present time is still rightly enjoying popularity. Although background discussions of several related topics are included in the present article, for example the classical ideas of Prandtl and von Karman, the main foci will be on (i) a careful examination of the Izakson-Millikan argument, together with a presentation of a better mathematical justification for its conclusion; and (ii) a detailed clarification of a newer approach to gaining theoretical understanding of the mean velocity and Reynolds stress profiles based on the search for scaling patches. The two approaches share common goals, they are both heavily involved with scaling concepts, and many results are similar, but the logical trains of thought are entirely different. The first, as mentioned, dates back to the 30's and the second was introduced in a series of recent papers by Fife, Wei and Klewicki et al.