This research focuses on analyzing the impact of erosion on the aerodynamic performance of aerofoils, using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations to gain a deeper understanding of how erosion-induced damage, such as pits and dents, affects lift, drag, and moment on aircraft wings. The study includes both steady-state and transient evaluations, specifically employing 2D numerical simulations to model various aerofoil profiles typically used by different aerospace manufacturers for flight wings and tail sections. By utilizing the Star CCM+ software, the research simulates the effects of various pit sizes on aerofoils to observe how the erosion alters aerodynamic forces. The primary goal is to identify which aerofoil profiles are most susceptible to erosion and how different pit sizes influence key aerodynamic parameters such as drag coefficient, lift, and moment. Ultimately, the study aims to provide valuable insights into the degradation of aerofoil performance due to erosion, contributing to the design of more durable and efficient aerodynamic surfaces in aerospace applications.
Aim:
This investigation aims to assess the impact of erosion on the aerodynamic performance of aerofoils, specifically focusing on key parameters such as lift, drag, and pitching moment. Erosion-induced damage, such as the formation of pits, dents, and surface irregularities, can significantly alter the airflow characteristics around an aerofoil, leading to changes in its lift production, drag resistance, and overall stability. The study examines how different types of erosion, in terms of pit size and distribution, affect the lift-to-drag ratio and the pitching moment, which influences the stability and control of the aircraft. By simulating these erosive effects through Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), the research aims to quantify the degradation in aerodynamic performance over time, providing insights into the durability of aerofoils and helping to inform maintenance schedules, materials selection, and design improvements for more resilient and efficient aerofoils in both commercial and military aviation.
Objective:
This research begins by reviewing previous studies on aerofoil fluid dynamics to understand the underlying principles governing lift, drag, and moment characteristics, alongside the impact of erosion on aerofoil performance. Based on this foundational knowledge, the optimal aerofoil profile is selected for further analysis. The study utilizes Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations to examine the aerodynamic performance of a 2D aerofoil across a range of angles of attack, focusing on key parameters such as lift, drag, moment, and power to evaluate its overall efficiency. Additionally, a time-dependent transient analysis is conducted to explore the dynamic flow behavior and vortex formation around the aerofoil, providing a deeper understanding of the transient effects on its aerodynamic performance. Finally, the research investigates how erosion-induced damage, such as the formation of pits and surface roughness, impacts the aerofoil’s aerodynamics, by simulating these erosive effects using 2D modeling techniques to observe changes in lift, drag, and moment as well as to assess the long-term implications on the aerofoil’s performance.
