NASA Technical Reports Server (NASA) · 1974 · 12 citations · 0 references
EngineeringAerospace EngineeringAerodynamicsFlow VisualizationFluid DynamicsAerodynamic DesignAerodynamic TestingAirfoil TheoryExperimental AerodynamicsExternal AerodynamicsWind-tunnel TestingAirfoil AerodynamicsAirfoil LiftFlow Around AirfoilsFlow Over AirfoilsLift-to-drag RatioReynolds NumberRotor AerodynamicsRotor Blade Aerodynamics
Wind tunnel tests of a wedgeshaped airfoil with sharp leading edge and a spanwise step were conducted. The airfoil was tested with variations of the following parameters: (1) Reynolds number, (2) step location, (3) step shape, (4) apex angle, and (5) with the step on either the upper or lower surface. The results are compared with a flat plate and with wedge airfoils without a step having the same aspect ratio. Water table tests were conducted for flow visualization and it was determined that the flow separates from the upper surface at low angles of attack. The wind tunnel tests show that the lift/drag ratio of the airfoil is lower than for a flat plate and the pressure data show that the airfoil derives its lift in the same manner as a flat plate.