Applicability of 3D Printed Fighter Aircraft Model for Subsonic Wind Tunnel

Abstract

Conventional wind tunnel models are made of metals making the process expensive. Significant research has been carried out to find an alternate solution to this costly procedure in the form of 3D printing. 3D printed wind tunnel models can be produced in a fraction of the cost and time of traditional metal or wood models. Under appropriate conditions, 3D printed models can be tested in the wind tunnel for aerodynamic performance. In this research a study was carried out in a wind tunnel to analyze the aerodynamic performance and structural strength of the 3D printed fighter aircraft model. The model used in this investigation was a scaled-down model made from polylactic acid plastic (PLA). Wind tunnel tests were performed at 120mph wind speed at various angles of attack and validation was done by comparing wind tunnel results with CFD results. The findings proved that 3D printed aircraft model can be used in wind tunnels as an inexpensive alternative for early testing in the design process.