An experimental and computational study of aerodynamic properties of rugby balls

Abstract

The aerodynamic properties of rugby balls as a function of wind speeds and yaw angles were measured using experimental and computational methods. The average drag and side forces coefficients for all speeds and yaw angles were computed and compared. The flow pattern around the rugby ball was visualized using wool tuft and smoke. No significant variation in Reynolds numbers was found in CFD results, however, some variations were noted in experimental findings. The average drag coefficient of a rugby ball at zero yaw was 0.18 and 0.14 in experimental and computational studies and this rose to about 0.60 and 0.50 when yawed at 90 degrees respectively.