Modeling techniques for transonic airfoils

Abstract

In the present comparative study of computer codes for the modeling of two-dimensional, single element airfoil sections for various section geometry classes, two of the codes use vortex singularities methods to obtain the potential flow solution while the remainder solve the full inviscid potential flow equations by means of finite differencing techniques that allow results to be obtained for transonic flow about an airfoil which includes weak shocks. Computational results are presented for a symmetrical airfoil section, a conventional section, and a supercritical one. Icing condition applications of the models are noted. The model codes' range of applicability and agreement with each other and experimental results, as well as their computer run times and memory requirements, are noted.