Dust sticking to fan blade downstream of rivet head

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    Dust Fan Head
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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the aerodynamic effects of rivet heads on fan blades, specifically how dust accumulates downstream of these rivets due to reduced pressure and velocity in the airflow. It highlights that flat-headed rivets are common in commercial airliners, creating turbulence that draws air in, contrary to Bernoulli's principle. The conversation also notes that recessed rivets, while more costly, enhance speed and reduce fuel consumption, as evidenced by the design of the Hughes H-1 Racer.

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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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