Scientific reasons why airfoils are used to straighten airflow

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the scientific reasons for using airfoils to straighten airflow, particularly in the context of turbulent flow from devices like fans or propellers. Participants explore the relationship between airfoil design and airflow characteristics, including turbulence and direction change.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks clarification on how airfoils straighten airflow, acknowledging their role in producing lift but expressing confusion about their effect on turbulence.
  • Another participant references a previous discussion, suggesting that there may be relevant information already provided.
  • A participant describes that flat plates do not effectively manage airflow direction, leading to turbulence and separation, while airfoils are designed to change direction smoothly, reducing turbulence.
  • A later reply expresses appreciation for the explanation, indicating that it was understood.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the specific mechanisms by which airfoils straighten airflow, and the discussion remains exploratory with varying levels of understanding.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes assumptions about airflow behavior and the effectiveness of airfoil design, but these are not fully resolved or quantified.

lucy_b14
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can anyone tell me the scientific reasons why airfoils are used to straighten airflow (e.g. turbulent flow from a fan or propeller). i know how they are used to produce lift, but cannot see how they straighten airflow.

thanx!
o:)
 
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yeh, its to do with my last post, but the replies don't seem to explain why an airfoil straightens airflow.
 
I get in the most descriptive manner I can think of, the answer is this:

If you put a flat plate in an airflow, it is not very condusive to changing direction of the flow. The flow on one side will bump into itself and become rough. On the other side, the sudden change in direction will cause the flow to separate.

Airfoils however, sort of 'hug' a flow. They're designed to change the direction with the least amount of choppiness. Because of that, they'll switch the direction with much less turbulence.

Wow... that's handwavey. Did it make sense at all? :smile:
 
thanks a lot! it does make sense
 

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