Dust sticking to fan blade downstream of rivet head

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    Dust Fan Head
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the phenomenon of dust accumulation on fan blades downstream of rivet heads, exploring the underlying fluid dynamics and aerodynamic principles. Participants examine the effects of pressure and velocity in the airflow around rivets, considering both theoretical and practical implications.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that dust sticks to fan blades due to reduced pressure and velocity in the airflow downstream of rivet heads.
  • Another participant expresses confusion regarding the simultaneous reduction of pressure and velocity, referencing Bernoulli's principle, which typically indicates an inverse relationship between the two.
  • A different viewpoint introduces the concept of turbulence in the area downstream of rivet heads, proposing that air is drawn into this region due to lower pressure, leading to chaotic airflow patterns.
  • Participants discuss the design of rivets, noting that recessed rivets, while more expensive, may enhance aerodynamic efficiency by increasing top speed and reducing fuel consumption.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the relationship between pressure and velocity in this context, and multiple competing views regarding the aerodynamic effects of rivet design and airflow characteristics remain evident.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved aspects regarding the specific conditions under which pressure and velocity change, as well as the implications of turbulence and airflow patterns around rivets.

Swamp Thing
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Why does dust stick to the fan blades just downstream of the rivet heads, forming a comet-tail like effect?

IMG_20220629_150011~2.jpg
 
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It is an area of turbulence, into which air is drawn by lower pressure.
Velocity may increase, but in a chaotic way and in circular trajectories.
Same should happen over the thick trailing edge of each wood or plastic blade.

Recessed rivets are more expensive, but those make top speed increase and fuel consumption decrease.
Please, see:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hughes_H-1_Racer#Design

 
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