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Supersonic, turbulent flow computation and drag optimization for axisymmetric afterbodies

Journal Article · · Computers and Fluids
; ;  [1]
  1. Univ of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA (United States)

The compressible, turbulent flow about an axisymmetric body was numerically studied using the MacCormack unsplit explicit algorithm applied to the mass-average Navier-Stokes equations solved in conjunction with the k- epsilon turbulence model of Jones and Launder. Numerical predictions of total body drag (pressure drag, skin friction drag, and base drag) were made for an axisymmetric body six diameters in length, with and without a boattail. Surface pressures and viscous layer profiles are compared with available wind tunnel data and are found to be in good agreement for both geometries. The Golden Section optimization method was used to optimize the body boattail angle for minimum drag. The solution method can serve as a tool for preliminary design analysis where the relative merits of utilizing boattails on axisymmetric afterbodies is being considered. 58 refs.

OSTI ID:
117637
Journal Information:
Computers and Fluids, Journal Name: Computers and Fluids Journal Issue: 4 Vol. 24; ISSN 0045-7930; ISSN CPFLBI
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English