Hydrodynamic stability of Bödewadt flow of a Newtonian fluid over a stationary stretchable disk subject to uniform suction in presence of heat transfer

Abstract

This study examines the hydrodynamic stability of an incompressible, Newtonian viscous fluid rotating above a stationary disk within a three-dimensional B & ouml;dewadt boundary layer, with a focus on the critical role of stability in practical applications involving rotating machinery and thermal management systems. The investigation explores the combined effects of surface stretching and induced suction on flow behaviour and convective instability characteristics, addressing a key challenge in ensuring stable operational conditions. The lower disk undergoes uniform radial expansion with an induced suction system, and similarity transformations convert the Navier-Stokes equations into a system of coupled ordinary differential equations (ODEs). The mean flow velocity profiles were numerically obtained, and the stability curves were derived through linear stability analysis using a Chebyshev polynomial discretisation approach. Results demonstrate that surface stretching and induced suction significantly enhance stability, particularly in mitigating Type I (cross-flow) instability, a crucial factor in optimising engineering systems reliant on rotating flows. The local stability analysis confirmed the flow stability across the examined parameter range, while the energy analysis the maximum amplification points further supports these findings. By providing a deeper understanding of the flow stabilisation mechanisms, this study offers novel insights with direct implications for industrial and engineering applications requiring precise control of the rotational fluid dynamics.