FLOWCID (Flow Control for Industrial Design) was a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Global Individual Fellowships funded by the Research Executive Agency (REA) under MSCA-IF-GF
As part of the FLOWCID project, Prof. Eusebio Valero from the Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (Spain) spent 2 years at Purdue University (USA), collaborating with Prof. Guillermo Paniagua in the Zucrow Lab (
https://engineering.purdue.edu/Zucrow(odnośnik otworzy się w nowym oknie)) where he conducted a training and research programme. He then completed an additional year in the return phase, transferring the knowledge gained back to UPM.
The main objective of FLOWCID was to develop new methods and tools for controlling flow unsteadiness, particularly the complex non-linear interactions observed in highly detached configurations and unstarting phenomena. To achieve this, FLOWICD proposed combining accurate (high-order) numerical simulations, flow stability and data analysis techniques, along with detailed experimental studies. This approach aimed to model the flow physics involved in Rotating Detonation Engines (RDEs), assess the sensitivity to perturbations, and ultimately define an actuator methodology for controlling these phenomena.
To conclude, this action has provided the fellow with the opportunity to create strong links with American research groups, expand their network of contacts, learn about the educational system of American universities, and improve their knowledge in Fluid Mechanics and experimental facilities. Additionally, the fellow has gained a better understanding of the links between numerical and experimental simulations, facilitating knowledge transfer to and from UPM.
Technically, improvements have been made in the state of the art in numerical simulation, particularly in the use of high-order schemes and their challenges in shock capturing, detached flows, and boundary layer interaction. The interpretation of experimental results, their uncertainties, and comparison with numerical results remain challenging. The creation of an advanced library for feature detection, which merges numerical and experimental data, has improved the accuracy and interpretation of results. Furthermore, new avenues for flow control have been explored, with initial designs indicating that much work remains, especially in unsteady, compressible, and highly detached flows.
The project has had a positive impact on the fellow’s career, who is now internationally recognized in the field of numerical simulation, stability analysis, and flow control.
