Numerical simulations over a three body launch vehicle for incompressible flows

Abstract

In the present work, three dimensional numerical simulations over a launch vehicle at 70 m/s are performed for 3 scale models. The vehicle has a cylindrical core body and two strap on boosters. The scaled models chosen so that they represent a wind tunnel blockage ratio of 3%, 4% and 5% respectively. Simulations are performed using commercial CFD software Ansys Fluent. Three dimensional structured mesh is generated using ICEMCFD software. The solver depends on finite volume technique, and SIMPLE calculation is utilized to address the couple continuity and energy conditions. K-w SST model is utilized for disturbance demonstration. The computed flow field is analyzed in terms of velocity, pressure and turbulent kinetic energy contours. Surface pressure acquired from the three simulation (relating to every blockage ratio) arrangements in balance plane is compared to understand the impact of blockage ratio on the stream field and drag coefficients. As the blockage is increased, it was observed that maximum velocity is increasing. Lowest blockage found to give highest drag coefficient.