Analysis of fluid dynamic behavior and impact load on oblique water entry of a two-dimensional seaplane based on VOF method

Abstract

Seaplane landing is a typical water entry impact phenomenon. However, our understanding on the development of jet flow and air cavity, and corresponding load characteristic is still limited. In this paper, the impact problem of oblique water entry of a two-dimensional seaplane is studied to clarify the relationship between theses complex flows and loads. A gas-liquid two-phase model is established to model these complex fluid flows, where the air-water interface is captured based on a VOF algorithm. The accuracy is validated by the published experimental data. Some hydrodynamic impact characteristics related to seaplane model under different oblique water entry postures, including air-water free surface and local impact pressure are discussed. Complicated flows (air cavity and jet flow impact) are the internal cause to some unusual load characteristics such as multiple pressure peaks, negative pressure, simultaneity of impact load on the airfoil, and great difference of load at different positions on the cabin. The evolution of jet flow and air cavity is further discussed through combing free surface and pressure distribution. Results clarified the mechanism of complex flows under the influence of bottom cabin and inclined postures, which will be helpful to further understand the impact phenomenon of seaplane landing.