Performance Enhancement of a Vertical Tail Model with Sweeping Jets

Abstract

Active flow control to delay the flow separation on the rudder of two different models has been investigated in the ONERA L1 wind tunnel. The first model was used as a simplified test case and consisted in a flat plate with a rudder. Different types of actuation were investigated: continuous/pulsed blowing through slots, continuous blowing through segmented slots and sweeping jets. The lift increments of these different types of actuation were compared not only in terms of mass flow rate but also in terms of momentum and power coefficients. Active flow control by sweeping jets was selected to be tested on the second model which is a scale 1:2 vertical tail model of a generic business jet. Side force increments up to 80% were achieved with a 2% value of C μ coefficient. Side force increments of 50% were also reached with a lower C μ value of 0.5%. These side force increments could lead to a reduction of vertical tail plane wetted area and weight and consequently to a reduction of drag cruise and fuel consumption.

Experimental Study of Vertical Tail Model Flow Control Based on Oscillating Jet

“…A 2% blowing momentum coefficient increases the lateral force by more than 50% at the maximum rudder deflection angle without yaw. Julien Dandois et al, (2020) [19] of Thackeray University studied the effect of active flow control technology on delayed rudder flow separation in two different models. The experimental results show that the impact of an unsteady jet on restraining flow separation is better than that of a steady jet.…”