Numerical simulation of flow over EPPLER 387 at low Reynolds number and comparison with experiment

Abstract

This paper presents the numerical simulations of low-Reynolds-number flow past an Eppler 387 airfoil at Re=20,000, 30,000, 60,000, 100,000 and 300,000 where transition takes place through a laminar separation bubble. The analysis is carried out using ANSYS FUENT. Two turbulence models, trans-SST and k-kl-Ѡ models were used for investigation. The lift coefficient, drag coefficient, point of separation and the point of reattachment were established. The numerical results of the aerodynamic coefficients are validated against wind tunnel results available in the literature.