Flow is Inviscid: Implications on Airfoil Flow, Drag & Stall

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In summary, the assumption that flow is inviscid means that the flow on the surface of the airfoil is not affected by the viscosity of the fluid. This assumption has implications on how drag is calculated, what happens when the airfoil stalls, and the lift generated by the airfoil.
  • #1
shah4u19
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Hello, I need help with this homework question.
One of the assumption the idea flow solution uses to solve equation is that flow is inviscid.
What does this assumption mean?
What are the implications of this assumption:
a. on the flow on the surface of the airfoil
b. in calculating drag
c. in determining what happens when the airfoil stalls

I would really appreciate you help.
Thank You.
 
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  • #2
Inviscid means flow of a fluid that is assumed to have no viscosity (i.e no firction forces).

Try this website; http://www.centennialofflight.gov/essay/Theories_of_Flight/Skin_Friction/TH11.htm

If we assume drag is skin-fiction drag then the effects of a real fluid flow are the result of the viscosity of the fluid. The viscosity causes a boundary layer and, hence, a skin-friction drag. The flow field is disrupted because of viscosity to the extent that a pressure drag arises. Also, the net pressure lift is reduced.

As for part c, I am not sure. Hope this helps.
 
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  • #3
when airfoil stalls occur, there's flow separation at a point on the airfoil. this separation makes the air flow no longer attached to the airfoil surface thus changing the flow trajectory and pressure distribution. the pressure is lowered at airfoil's back thus drag increased significantly; the intended smooth flow at trailing edge to meet the kutta condition is no longer exist thus lift is failed to be generated.

the flow separation occurs because the flow at boundary layer is running out its energy due to the viscous friction between the boundary layer air with the airfoil surface. at the point of separation, the flow cannot maintain its capability to attach to the hump-shaped surface because it doesn't have enough kinetic energy (something dependent to speed) to overcome the pressure gradient on its way to the trailing edge.

CMIIW

suratpanas
 

1. What is the meaning of "inviscid" in the context of airflow?

Inviscid refers to a fluid flow that has no viscosity. Viscosity is a fluid property that describes its resistance to shear stress, or the force required to make it flow. In an inviscid flow, there is no internal friction between fluid particles, allowing the flow to move smoothly and without loss of energy.

2. How does the absence of viscosity affect the flow over an airfoil?

The absence of viscosity in an airfoil flow means that there is no boundary layer, which is a thin layer of fluid that experiences a velocity gradient near the surface of the airfoil. This results in a streamlined flow over the airfoil, reducing drag and allowing for more efficient lift generation.

3. What are the implications of inviscid flow on airfoil drag?

Inviscid flow results in a lower drag force on the airfoil compared to a flow with viscosity. This is because there is no energy loss due to friction between the air particles and the airfoil surface, allowing for a more streamlined flow and less drag. This is important for aerospace engineers designing aircraft for optimal performance.

4. How does inviscid flow affect the stall behavior of an airfoil?

Inviscid flow can lead to a delayed stall behavior in airfoils. This is because the absence of viscosity allows for a smoother flow and a more gradual increase in pressure towards the trailing edge of the airfoil. This delay in the separation of the airflow allows for a higher angle of attack before the airfoil stalls, providing better lift performance.

5. Are there any real-world applications of inviscid flow in airfoil design?

Inviscid flow has been used in the design of high-performance airfoils for aircraft and wind turbines. By reducing drag and delaying stall, these airfoils can achieve greater lift and efficiency. In addition, inviscid flow has also been studied in the development of supersonic and hypersonic aircraft, where minimizing drag is crucial for achieving high speeds.

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