Visualization Analysis of Flow with Smoke on Airfoils and Flaps

Abstract

Flow visualization using smoke over airfoils and flaps provides valuable insights into the aerodynamic behavior of these surfaces, particularly in identifying flow attachment, separation, and wake characteristics. This study explores the interaction of airflow with clean airfoils and configurations involving deflected flaps, employing smoke as a tracer in a controlled wind tunnel environment. The investigation focuses on analyzing laminar-to-turbulent transition, boundary-layer behavior, flow reattachment, and the formation of vortices and wake patterns. Results demonstrate the influence of flap deflection angles on lift, drag, and flow separation, highlighting the role of slots in mitigating separation and enhancing aerodynamic performance. This approach offers a practical methodology for optimizing airfoil and flap designs in applications requiring efficient lift-to-drag ratios and delayed stall conditions.