University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg

School of Mechanical, Industrial, and Aeronautical Engineering

Title:

Variation of the drag coefficient with Reynolds

number

Subject:

MECN3007 - Mechanical Engineering Labs II

Author:

Brandon Heukelman (555597)

Due date:

Thursday 18 April 2013

DECLARATION
I, Brandon Heukelman (555597), declare that this laboratory report is my own, unaided
work, except where otherwise acknowledged. It is being submitted for the degree of
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering in the University of the Witwatersrand,
Johannesburg.
It has not been submitted before for any degree or examination at any other university. I
further declare that I am aware that plagiarism (the use of someone elses work without
their permission and/ or without acknowledging the original source) is wrong.
I understand that the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg may take
disciplinary action against me if it can be shown that this task is not my own unaided
work, or that I have failed to acknowledge the source of the ideas or words in my
writing in this task.

Name: Brandon Heukelman

Student Number: 555597
Group Number: 25
Due Date: 18th April 2013

Signature:
i

ABSTRACT
The objective of this experiment was to calibrate the angle of attack of the model, to
collect accurate data on the drag forces at different angles of attack, and lastly to
compare drag coefficients against the angle of attack for different Reynolds numbers.
This was done by using a closed-circuit wind tunnel and an external balance. It was
found that drag is a minimum when no lift is produced, and this drag, called parasitic
drag, is inversely proportional to the Reynolds number. When the Reynolds number is
increased the drag coefficient is decreased throughout the range of angles tested. At low
angles of attack, the drag coefficient varies parabolically. When the stall angle is
reached, the drag coefficient varies linearly. The gradient of this linear trend is directly
proportional to the Reynolds number. The stall angle was also found to decrease with an
increase in Reynolds number.

ii

CONTENTS
Page
Declaration

Abstract

ii

Contents

iii

List of Figures

Introduction
1.1

Literature Review

1.1.1

Measurement Systems

Airfoil Theory

Forces on an Airfoil

Circulation

Kutta-Joukowsky Theorem

Dimensionless Parameters

Geometric and dynamic similarity

Reynolds Number

Coefficients of Lift, Drag and Pitching Moments

1.1.4

Previous Studies

Joukowski Airfoil

NACA0012 Airfoil

Objectives

Experimentation
2.1

Terminology of Airfoils

1.1.3

Wind Tunnels

1.1.2

1.2

Wind Tunnel Operation and Instrumentation

Apparatus

2.1.1

Equipment

5
5
5
5
iii

2.1.2
2.2

Instrumentation

Procedures And Precautions

6
6

2.2.1

Procedure

2.2.2

Precautions

2.3

Observations

2.4

Data Processing

2.5

Results

Discussion

Conclusion

List of References

10

Appendix I Uncertianty Analysis

11

Angle of Attack

11

Plan Form Area of Airfoil

11

Density

11

Drag Coefficient

11

Appendix II Mean Drag Force Results

13

Appendix III Risk Assesment Form

14

iv

LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1 - Basic Airfoil Terminology (8)

Figure 2 - Data for NACA 0012 Airfoil (8)

Figure 3 - Wind Tunnel Schematic (9)

Figure 4 - Test Rig Schematic (9)

Figure 5 - Drag Coefficients against Angle of Attack

INTRODUCTION

1.1

Literature Review

1.1.1 Wind Tunnel Operation and Instrumentation

Wind Tunnels
A low-speed wind tunnel is, in essence, a large venturi where airflow is driven by a fan
connected to some motor. The fan draws air through the venturi, with the model placed
inside. The nozzle of the venturi increases the velocity (hence decreasing the pressure)
of the airflow, once the airflow passes the test section, the diffuser returns the airflow to
the previous velocity and pressure as efficient as possible (1).
There are two general wind tunnel types: open or closed circuit type. The closed circuit
type reuses the airflow from the exhaust forming a loop, thus reducing operating costs
but the extra ducting requires more space. The open circuit type draws air directly from
the atmosphere and is exhausted out the back.
Wind tunnel interference or turbulence is defined as the relative magnitude of velocity
fluctuations in the three planes (2). To important factors to be measured is the intensity
and scale of turbulence. The significant effect of turbulence is important in the
boundary layer region. However, the stability of simple shapes, such as airfoils, are
highly insensitive to turbulence in the wind tunnel, as seen in the work by Volluz (2).
Measurement Systems
The pitot-static probe (more commonly known as a pitot tube) is used to measure the
velocity of a fluid stream at a point. The probe causes the fluid stream to stagnate; this
pressure is then measured and is known as the total pressure (po). The static pressure (p)
is also measured through a static pressure orifice. The difference in these pressures is
known as the dynamic pressure, from Bernoullis equation. Once the dynamic pressure
is known, the velocity can be calculated from equation 1.
(1)
Where
= dynamic pressure, in Pascal
= fluid stream velocity, in m/s
po = total pressure, in Pascal
p = static pressure, in Pascal
= fluid density, in kg/m3

A multi-tube manometer is created when one limb of the U-tube has a cross section
sufficiently large that the level of the fluid does not appreciably change. This limb or
reservoir can then be connected to a bank of tubes measuring different pressures. At
least one of these tubes is required for a reference. This reference level can easily be
changed by raising or lowering the reservoir. (2)
Internal or external balances measure forces on the model within the wind tunnel.
Internal balances are fixed to the model, and only indirectly give values of forces.
External balances are placed outside the wind tunnel, and require ample space.
However, external balances have three advantages over internal balances. Firstly, it can
measure large forces with a high accuracy, secondly the model may be mounted
anywhere with respect to the moment center of the balance and lastly less space is used
within the wind tunnel. (2)
1.1.2 Airfoil Theory
Terminology of Airfoils
Airfoils are composed of a leading edge and trailing edge. The leading edge is usually
rounded, while the trailing edge tapers off. This is seen in Figure 1 - Basic Airfoil
Terminology. The chord is the length between these two edges and is named the chord
line. The camber is the midpoint between the upper and lower edges. The angle of
attack is the angle between the chord line and the oncoming fluid stream.

Figure 1 - Basic Airfoil Terminology (8)

Forces on an Airfoil
At small angles of attack, fluid flow around the airfoil remains attached, thus no
turbulence is formed. There is also very little induced or pressure drag during this time;
most drag is from viscous effects.

The lift produced by an airfoil is dependent mostly on the geometric factors of airfoil.
When the flow is symmetrical, no lift is produced, this may occur at a negative angle for
some airfoils. Lift can be calculated by equation 2.
Drag is the force that resists the motion of fluid over the airfoil. It could be due to
pressure on the leading edge or from viscous effects of the fluid. Drag can be calculated
by equation 3.
The pitching moments depend on where the moments are taken, which is calculated by
equation 4. The point usually chosen is a quarter of the chord from the leading edge.
The point where no moments are produced is called the aerodynamic center.
(2)
(3)
(4)
Where
= Force, in Newtons
,
= Moments, in Nm
= Coefficient parameters
,
,
A = Surface area, in m2
c = Chord length, in meters
Circulation
Circulation is defined as the line integral of the velocity around any closed curve (3).
When the airfoil is placed in steady flow two stagnation points are created, one at the
leading edge and one at the trailing edge. Normal ideal calculations show the rearward
stagnation point is slightly above the trailing edge. Although in reality the rearward
stagnation point is at the trailing edge, this is known as the Kutta condition (3). The
stagnation point is moved by adding circulation, this creates a pressure difference
between the upper and lower surfaces.
Kutta-Joukowsky Theorem
This theorem states that any cross section that has circulation around it, within a fluid
stream, produces a lifting force (3). This holds for any structure as long as the region
with circulation is fully enclosed. The theorem assumes that there is smooth flow
around the airfoil, i.e. for small angles of attack when flow is still laminar.

1.1.3 Dimensionless Parameters

Geometric and dynamic similarity
Geometric similarity depends on size and shape of the object in question. While
dynamic similarity requires that dimensional parameters are equivalent between the
model and prototype.
Reynolds Number
The Reynolds number, in equation 5, is the measure of the ratio of inertia to viscous
forces. This parameter describes the type of flow around the object.
(5)
Where
= Fluid viscosity, in kg/ms
Coefficients of Lift, Drag and Pitching Moments
Coefficients are dimensionless quantities, which change when the angle of attack and
Reynolds number changes. These coefficients allow the researcher to compare
aerodynamic forces of different airfoils.
1.1.4

Previous Studies

Joukowski Airfoil
The airfoil is created by using a conformal mapping, called the Joukowski
transformation. This mapping takes an airfoil shape and converts to a simple geometry,
namely a circle. This allows the researcher to establish theoretical flow coefficients of
the complex geometry.
NACA0012 Airfoil
This is a symmetrical airfoil with a width of 12% of the chord. As seen in Figure 2 Data for NACA 0012 Airfoil.a, the theoretical coefficient of lift rises linearly with the
angle of attack, until it reaches a maximum value then rapidly falls off. This occurs
because of flow separation, and the airfoil stalls.
In Figure 2 - Data for NACA 0012 Airfoil.b, how the theoretical drag coefficient rises
much faster than the lift coefficient. The lift coefficient then reaches its maximum value
then falls away while the drag coefficient continues to increase.

Figure 2 - Data for NACA 0012 Airfoil (8)

1.2

Objectives

The objectives of this experiment were:

1.

To calibrate the angle of attack for the Joukowsky airfoil.

2.

To accurately collect data about the drag experienced on the Joukowsky airfoil.

3.

To compare the coefficient of drag at different Reynoldss numbers.

EXPERIMENTATION

2.1

Apparatus

2.1.1 Equipment
A closed-circuit wind tunnel was used for this experiment, as described in Figure 3 Wind Tunnel Schematic.

Figure 3 - Wind Tunnel Schematic (9)

A test rig, as show in Figure 4 - Test Rig Schematic, was used in the experiment. It
supported the model and included an external balance to measure the forces acting on
5

the airfoil. It could also change the angle of attack of the model, through the servo
motor.

Figure 4 - Test Rig Schematic (9)

2.1.2 Instrumentation
Bubble Inclinometer: Used to calibrate the angle of attack of the model.
Thermometer:

Used to measure air temperature, with uncertainty of 0.5C.

Data Logger:

Recorded values of the forces acting on model, at 2.5 Hz, against

time.

Computer Station:

Allows control and display of data recorded, the angle of attack

and temperature.

The pitot tube and manometer was not operational and values were obtained via the lab
assistant.
2.2

Procedures And Precautions

2.2.1 Procedure
1. Calibrate the angle of attack with the bubble inclinometer, by:
a. Aligning the inclinometer with the model, and reading the angle
b. Change the angle of attack, and make another reading.
c. Now a linear relationship can be assumed between the points measures.
2. Record the initial atmospheric conditions with thermometer and barometer.
3. Place the model securely within the test chamber, then seal the test chamber.
4. Start the wind tunnel, and increase motor speed until the correct airspeed is reached.
5. Insert pitot tube to find the pressure difference and then calculate airspeed.
6. Make any necessary adjustments to motor speed.
6

7. Adjust the angle of attack of the model until stall angle is reached.
8. Decrease angle of attack incrementally while taking necessary measurements.
9. Increase airspeed, and repeat steps 5 to 9.
2.2.2 Precautions
Refer to Appendix III, for the Laboratory Risk Assessment.
1. Ensure that the Pitot tube is installed perpendicular to the airflow.
2. Make sure the bubble is not touched until the reading has been taken.
3. Once the motor speed has been changed, allow a steady state to form.
2.3

Observations

Atmospheric conditions were observed at 303 K and 83.3 kPa within the wind tunnel.
Although the temperature was recorded with every measurement, there was little change
in the temperature. Hence, it was decided to take the temperature as constant.
The angle of attack was calibrated with the inclinometer, and it was found that the angle
of attack could fit equation 6.
(6)
Where
= Pot value
Flow visualization was in the form of tufts attached to the airfoil. These tufts were
placed in strategic locations, to allow estimates of the flow patterns produced. These
locations are places such as the trailing edge, upper surface, and lower surface.
2.4

Data Processing

Results were handled in spreadsheets, using Microsoft Excel. It was quickly found that
this program had very limited high-volume data handling. However, once the data had
been broken into smaller sizes, the data could be handled easily.
Data was recorded at 2.5 Hz throughout the experiment. The data was then dissected
into sections for each angle of attack, where each section held more than 3000 data
points. The mean value was taken in section and the standard error was calculated, as
seen in appendix I. The mean results are in appendix II.

2.5

Results

The results were plotted, in Figure 5 - Drag Coefficients against Angle of Attack, using
the values calculated in Appendix II.
Drag Coefficients for varying Angles of Attack

0.500
0.450

Coefficient of Drag

0.400
0.350
0.300

Re = 197 000

0.250
0.200

Re = 273 000

0.150
0.100
0.050

0.000
-10.0

0.0

10.0
20.0
30.0
Angle of Attack ()
Figure 5 - Drag Coefficients against Angle of Attack

DISCUSSION

The angle of attack was found, in degrees, by calibrating the sting. This relationship was
assumed linear. Hence, a straight-line equation could be fitted to the data. The drag
caused by the sting was assumed to be constant, through all the angles of attack
experienced. Thus it took no part in the calculations.
The coefficient of drag has a parabolic nature at low angles of attack (-10 to 14). At
larger angles of attack (> 14), a linear relationship forms. The minimum drag
coefficient is due to the parasitic drag only, thus no lift force is produced at these angles
of attack (-1.1 for Re = 197000 and -2.4 for Re = 273 000). The parasitic drag is
composed of form, skin friction and interference drag. Only the shape of the airfoil,
which is kept constant throughout the experiment, produces form drag. The surface
finish of the airfoil, which is also kept constant throughout the experiment, produces
skin friction drag.
When the drag coefficient is greater than the minimum, induced drag is formed. This
occurs because of the pressure gradient between the upper and lower surfaces of the
8

airfoil, which generates a lifting force. This shows that no system can be 100% efficient.
When the stall angle ( 14) is reached, the relationship becomes linear. The gradient of
this relationship is sharply increased. This occurs because of the separation of the
boundary layer from the airfoil. Boundary layer separation occurs because of particles
reaching a pressure gradient that they cannot overcome.
It had been observed that the airfoil with a greater Reynolds number has a lower drag
coefficient throughout the range of angles tested. Parasitic drag is lower (0.132 < 0.173)
and the angle (-2.4 < -1.1) that this minimum occurs is lower for a higher Reynolds
number.
The stall angle is lower for the high Reynolds number test (11 < 14). This shows that
boundary layer separation occurs earlier at higher Reynolds numbers. The gradient of
the linear region is also higher for the large Reynolds number test. This shows that there
is a larger pressure gradient, for the air particles, to overcome.
Without dimensionless parameters to compare, extracting trends from results would be
much more difficult. This shows that dimensionless parameters are vital when
comparing data.
4

CONCLUSION

The experiment was a success and the following conclusions could be drawn:

Calibration of the models angle of attack is necessary for accurate interpolation of

the angle in degrees.

The induced drag coefficients, at low angles of attack, increase parabolically.

Above the stall angle, induced drag forces increase linearly, because of the
separation of the boundary layer.

The drag coefficients, at low angles of attack, are inversely proportional to Reynolds
number.

Parasitic drag coefficients (no lift drag coefficient) are inversely proportional to
Reynolds number.

The stall angle of the airfoil is inversely proportional to Reynolds number.

LIST OF REFERENCES
1. D, Anderson J. Fundamentals of Aerodynamics. 1st. New York : Macgraw Hill,
1984. 0-07-001656-9.
2. J, Volluz R. Handbook of Supersonic Aerodynamics: Wind Tunnel Instrumentation
and Operation. Ordnaice Aerophysics Laboratory. Daingerfield : The John Hopkins
University, 1961. 20.
3. J, Bertin J. Aerodynamics for Engineers. 4th. s.l. : Prentice Hall, 2002. 0-13-0646334
4. Baals D. D, Corliss W. R. Windtunnels of NASA. Scientific and Technical
Information Branch, NASA. Washington : NASA, 1981. NASA SP-440.
5. G, Davanport A. Wind Tunnel Testing: A General Outline. Faculty of Engineering
Science. Ontario : The University of Western Ontario, 2007.
6. M, White F. Fluid Mechanics. 4th. Rhode Island : Macgraw Hill, 2007.
7. Scott, Jeff. Angle of Attack and Pitch Angle. [Web] [ed.]
http://www.aerospaceweb.org. s.l. : http://www.aerospaceweb.org, 29 Febraury 2004.
8. T. Cebeci, E. Besnard, H. H. Chen. An interactive boundary-layer method for
multielement airfoils. Long Beach : California State University, 1988.
9. Naidoo, Prinal. Wind tunnel testing. School of Mechanical, Industrial, and
Aeronautical Engineering, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. s.l. : University
of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. student short report.

10

APPENDIX I UNCERTIANTY ANALYSIS

Angle of Attack

Plan Form Area of Airfoil

Density

Drag Coefficient
Drag force error (

) is the standard error calculated by the standard deviation () and

the number of data points (n). The standard deviation is different for each angle of

11

attack, because of the change in the drag force and number of elements. Hence, each
data point has a different standard error, which can be seen in Appendix II.

12

APPENDIX II MEAN DRAG FORCE RESULTS

Angle
of
Attack

Mean
Drag
Force

23.5 10.5283
21.4 9.5030
15.3 7.6680
13.1 5.3827
7.4 4.8419
3.8 3.9232
-0.7 3.9035
-4.8 4.4277
-1.2 3.8612
7.3 4.3961
15.9 8.1469
23.6 10.4829
23.9
19.3
16.2
10.9
8.2
4.1
-1.1
-4.5
-0.9
7.4
15.9
26.0

18.8434
15.3940
13.5693
7.9995
7.0660
5.9702
5.8297
6.6874
5.6938
6.9120
13.7202
20.2353

Drag
Standard
Drag
Coefficient
Error
Coefficient
Error
For Re = 197 000
0.0005
0.461
0.006
0.0033
0.416
0.006
0.0024
0.336
0.004
0.0007
0.236
0.003
0.0007
0.212
0.003
0.0001
0.172
0.002
0.0003
0.171
0.002
0.0007
0.194
0.003
0.0002
0.169
0.002
0.0004
0.193
0.003
0.0007
0.357
0.005
0.0006
0.459
0.006
For Re = 273 000
0.0013
0.432
0.005
0.0016
0.353
0.004
0.0016
0.311
0.004
0.0011
0.183
0.002
0.0003
0.162
0.002
0.0011
0.137
0.002
0.0004
0.134
0.002
0.0012
0.153
0.002
0.0003
0.131
0.002
0.0005
0.158
0.002
0.0008
0.315
0.004
0.0020
0.464
0.005

13

APPENDIX III RISK ASSESMENT FORM

Hazard Identification

Risk Assessment

Risk Control

Review

No. What harm can it Risk Score

cause?

Control
Measures Harm
already implemented
Reduction

Whose
responsible

By when

Controls
effective

Noise
tunnel

of

Wind Low

None

PPE

User

Near future

Unknown

Pressure
wind tunnel

within Low

None

Isolation

School

Near future

Yes

Electricity supplied Low

to motor

Electrical cables well Isolation

shielded

School

Near future

Yes

Clutter around wind Moderate

tunnel

Cabinets
storage

Accidental start up High

of
wind
tunnel
during maintenance

Safety switch and Engineering

administrative control

used

for Administrative School

Technician

Date finalised

Next operation Yes

of wind tunnel
Immediate

Unknown

14