The aerodynamics of a typical Le Mans configuration is investigated numerically and experimentally. The purpose of the investigation has been to gain a better understanding of the aerodynamic characteristics of such configurations in extreme off-design conditions. Computational modeling is performed with a low-order panel method, while flow visualization is accomplished with dye injection in a water tunnel using a 1/24-scale model. At low angles of attack, excellent agreement is shown between the streamline patterns observed experimentally and those predicted computationally, despite the large differences in Reynolds numbers. Experimental results indicate presence of attached boundary layers over a large part of the car at very high angles of attack. Furthermore, strong vortical structures are detected around sharp edges of lower part of the car at these extreme attitudes. It is postulated that these flow characteristics assist the catastrophic departure of these vehicles once they separate from the track.


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    Title :

    Experimental and Computational Modeling of the Aerodynamics of a Racecar


    Additional title:

    Sae Technical Papers


    Contributors:

    Conference:

    World Aviation Congress & Exposition ; 2001



    Publication date :

    2001-09-11




    Type of media :

    Conference paper


    Type of material :

    Print


    Language :

    English




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