The Aerodynamic Performance of Laser Drilled Sheets

Abstract

The aerodynamic characteristics of laser drilled titanium sheets are investigated. In the context of laminar flow applications, the most important issues are the pressure drop across the surface for a given mass flow rate per unit area and the nommal hole diameter. In order to investigate these a simple flow model is developed for an ideal hole. This shows that the pressure drop is a quadratic function of the mass flow rate. Data for eieht perforated sheets are presented in terms of the parameters contained within the model. Operating ranges for these parameters are identified. Finally a method is proposed for the specification of suction surface geometry which facilitates accurate manufacture and subsequent quality control.