Establishing temperature dependency of the aerodynamic drag using CFD and experimental analysis

Abstract

Objective: The study focuses on finding out, whether the flow temperature plays a role in the aerodynamic drag experienced by the moving body or not. Method/Analysis: For doing so, a small scale wind tunnel was constructed and its initial recorded data was matched with the simulated results. This gave an extent to which the fabricated tunnel is accurate or correct in determining drag. Next the temperature of flow in tunnel would be changed physically, to get drag for an extended range of temperature difference. The results will be observed with the help of plotted graphs, and conclusions would be drawn. Findings: The study revealed the temperature dependency of drag. It tends to increase with temperature. With an increase in 3°C in the temperature the drag coefficient was found to increase by 0.025. Novelty: The tunnel design can be further improved to provide accurate dependence relation.