Calculating drag for high mach numbers

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating drag for high Mach numbers, specifically addressing the transition from skin friction to pressure drag as the dominant force. At speeds around 420 m/s, the drag coefficient (Cd) must account for wave drag, which becomes significant at high Mach numbers. The equation for drag force, Fd=(roh)(0.5)(A)(Cd)(v^2), remains applicable for defining the drag coefficient but is not sufficient for calculating drag force at these speeds. The contributions of skin friction, form drag, and wave drag are critical for accurate assessments in high-speed aerodynamics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of fluid dynamics principles
  • Familiarity with drag coefficient (Cd) calculations
  • Knowledge of Mach number effects on drag
  • Basic mathematics for fluid force equations
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  • Research wave drag estimation techniques for high-speed objects
  • Study the impact of Mach number on drag coefficients
  • Explore Dr. Gerald M. Gregorek's work on drag at low Mach numbers
  • Learn about the effects of interference drag in complex structures
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Aerospace engineers, rocket designers, and students of fluid dynamics seeking to understand drag forces at high speeds and their implications on performance.

LT72884
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Ok, so i have a high powered rocket i made and it hits about 420 m/s

At low mach numbers, most the drag is due to skin friction, hence why you can solve for the Cd based on the Re and geometry alone (Dr. Gerald M. Gregoreks work shows this)

However, as soon as you hit higher mach numbers, pressure drag is the governing "force"

Meaning that Fd=(roh)(0.5)(A)(Cd)(v^2) is not really applicable anymore

So what is the new equation i should be using?

Thanks
 
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https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drag_coefficient said:
The drag coefficient of any object comprises the effects of the two basic contributors to fluid dynamic drag: skin friction and form drag. The drag coefficient of a lifting airfoil or hydrofoil also includes the effects of lift-induced drag. The drag coefficient of a complete structure such as an aircraft also includes the effects of interference drag.

Definition​

The drag coefficient is defined as

be358f44b989746a70ff5a96f5ea6ff4a242ea8b
So the equation is always applicable since, no matter the Mach number, there is always a drag force and a fluid density. The equation is used to define the drag coefficient, NOT to find the drag force.

In addition, at high Mach numbers, you get a wave drag component whose value can be estimated mathematically.
 
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jack action said:
So the equation is always applicable since, no matter the Mach number, there is always a drag force and a fluid density. The equation is used to define the drag coefficient, NOT to find the drag force.

In addition, at high Mach numbers, you get a wave drag component whose value can be estimated mathematically.
Thats what i thought. Though i have been informed differently a few times, and each time they do have a good explanation too.

Im hoping the other user, i think its Russ, will chime in.

I love learning and this is good stuff
 
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Due to the constant never ending supply of "cool stuff" happening in Aerospace these days I'm creating this thread to consolidate posts every time something new comes along. Please feel free to add random information if its relevant. So to start things off here is the SpaceX Dragon launch coming up shortly, I'll be following up afterwards to see how it all goes. :smile: https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacex/

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