Abstract:

Flow noise (i.e., acoustic noise generated by turbulent flow) is one of the major sources of noise of naval platforms and remains one of the main challenges for acoustic signature management (due to ever-increasing operational speed and reduction of noise level generated by other sources). It has been well recognised that a simple yet reliable prediction methods of flow noise at the initial stage of the future underwater platforms design and development is a critical success factor for large acquisition projects.

Any experimental study of flow noise is a rather difficult and often expensive undertaking involving complex large-scale experimental facilities. This is due to the fact that this phenomenon is often masked by extraneous noise entering or generated by the experimental facility.

We present a review of our recent experimental investigation of flow noise with a small-scale buoyancy driven model in DST Group’s Large Water Tank and in the acoustic enclosure in DST Group’s Wind tunnel. The uncertainties associated with the upscaling procedure for the results of small-scale modelling are also discussed. The talk is intended for a general audience.

Bio: Alex Skvortsov is a Principle Scientist for Signature Control at Defence Science and Technology Group (Australia), leading a team which researches novel solutions for acoustic signature management. Alex’s educational background is in physics: his PhD thesis (Moscow University of Applied Physics and Technology) dealt with the models of localised vortices, sound-vortex interaction, and flow acoustics. Alex has significant R&D experience in defence sponsored projects (flow noise, new coating materials, data fusion, sensor networks) on which he has worked in academia and industry. Alex has two adjunct professorship appointments with The University of New South Wales and University of Tasmania. His publication profile is public: Dr Alex Skvortsov | UNSW Research