Propeller Slipstream Characterisation by Large-Scale PIV
An experimental study for Isolated Propeller and Propeller-Wing Interaction
Pablo Cueto Corral (TU Delft - Aerospace Engineering)
A Sciacchitano – Mentor (TU Delft - Aerodynamics)
F Scarano – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Aerodynamics)
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Abstract
This study explores the flowfield around a pusher propeller-wing configuration using Lagrangian Particle Tracking (LPT). It assesses LPT’s capability to characterise propeller-wing interactions, emphasising its ability to resolve complex flow dynamics.
The experiment successfully achieves high particle concentrations downstream of the propeller, with propeller rotation enhancing the uniformity of the particle distribution. Velocity measurements are precise and feature low uncertainty, and vortex dynamics shed by the propeller are effectively resolved.
Furthermore, the study confirms LPT’s robustness in characterising wing-propeller flow characteristics, particularly in thrust and torque calculations, highlighting its non-invasive nature for performance measurements.
The investigation reveals how the wing influences the slipstream’s vortex structure and identifies the pylon’s effects. The method captures the propeller-induced effects on the wing, providing insights into upwash, downwash, and angle of attack variations.
In conclusion, this research demonstrates the utility of LPT in comprehensively characterising propeller-wing interactions, offering valuable insights for aviation and propeller innovations.