Downstream flow condition effects on the RR → MR transition of asymmetric shock waves in steady flows

In this paper, the regular reflection (RR) to Mach reflection (MR) transition of asymmetric shock waves is theoretically studied by employing the classical two- and three-shock theories. Computations are conducted to evaluate the effects of expansion fans, which are inherent flow structures in asymmetric reflection of shock waves, on the RR → MR transition. Comparison shows good agreement among the theoretical, numerical and experimental results. Some discrepancies between experiment and theory reported in previous studies are also explained based on the present theoretical analysis. The advanced RR → MR transition triggered by a transverse wave is also discussed for the interaction of a hypersonic flow and a double-wedge-like geometry.