Experimental Aerodynamics

This book presents experimental techniques in the field of aerodynamics, a discipline that is essential in numerous areas, such as the design of aerial and ground vehicles and engines, the production of energy, and understanding the wind resistance of buildings. Aerodynamics is not only concerned with improving the performance and comfort of vehicles, but also with reducing their environmental impact. The book provides updated information on the experimental and technical methods used by aerodynamicists, engineers and researchers. It describes the various types of wind tunnels – from subsonic to hypersonic – as well as the problems posed by their design and operation. The book also focuses on metrology, which has allowed us to gain a detailed understanding of the local properties of flows, and examines current developments toward creating a methodology combining experiments and numerical simulations: the computer-assisted wind tunnel. Lastly, it offers an overview of experimental aerodynamics based on a prospective vision of the discipline, and discusses potential futures challenges. The book can be used as a textbook for graduate courses in aerodynamics, typically offered to students of aerospace and mechanical engineering programs, and as a learning tool for professionals and engineers in the fields of aerodynamics, aeronautics and astronautics automobile.

Experimental Aerodynamics provides an up to date study of this key area of aeronautical engineering. The field has undergone significant evolution with the development of 3D techniques, data processing methods, and the conjugation of simultaneous measurements of multiple quantities. Written for undergraduate and graduate students in Aerospace Engineering, the text features chapters by leading experts, with a consistent structure, level, and pedagogical approach. Fundamentals of measurements and recent research developments are introduced, supported by numerous examples, illustrations, and problems. The text will also be of interest to those studying mechanical systems, such as wind turbines.

This book is intended as a text for undergraduate and graduate courses in aerodynamics, typically offered to students of aerospace and mechanical engineering programs. It covers all aspects of aerodynamics. The book begins with a description of the standard atmosphere and basic concepts, then moves on to cover the equations and mathematical models used to describe and characterize flow fields, as well as their thermodynamic aspects and applications. Specific emphasis is placed on the relation between concepts and their use in aircraft design. Additional topics of interest to the reader are presented in the Appendix, which draws on the teachings provided in the text. The book is written in an easy to understand manner, with pedagogical aids such as chapter overviews, summaries, and descriptive and objective questions to help students evaluate their progress. Atmospheric and gas tables are provided to facilitate problem solving. Lastly, a detailed bibliography is included at the end of each chapter to provide students with further resources. The book can also be used as a text for professional development courses in aerodynamics.

This book covers the application of computational fluid dynamics from low-speed to high-speed flows, especially for use in aerospace applications.