Wind-Tunnel Interference Effects on Delta Wing Aerodynamics Computational Fluid Dynamics Investigation

Abstract

Reynolds averaged Navier‐Stokes simulations of a static and pitching delta wing within three wind tunnels have been performed. These simulations have been compared with the case of the wing in free air to ascertain the various influences of the walls on the vortical flow. The presence of tunnel walls has been found to promote vortex breakdown, with side wall proximity being the dominant factor. Roof and floor proximity has been seen to have a negligible effect on vortex breakdown. During pitching motion, side wall proximity delays vortex reformation after breakdown has reached its most upstream location, during cyclic pitching motion. This delay is recovered on the upstroke of the motion. These results confirm previous work with Euler simulations of tunnel interference.