Abstract
In the current research, a series of numerical simulations of the flow field around a typical tractor-trailer combination with and without a drag reduction device (i.e., boat tail) have been performed to study the effect of the device on wake structures and flow evolution behind the trailer. The results of the simulations have been validated through comparison of the drag coefficient against available wind-tunnel measurement data. Based on the evolution profiles and flow visualisation behind the trailer, it has been shown that the trailer wake region in proximity of the trailer rear surface is significantly influenced by the trailer boat tail. As such a quicker flow recovery, smaller recirculation bubble and lower level of turbulent kinetic energy is obtained when the boat tail is utilised. This resulted in about 8.6% decrease in the vehicle aerodynamic drag and 4.6% fuel saving based on the travelling speed of 65 mph.
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