Executive Summary
A fluid mechanics experiment analyzing the wake behind a cylinder to determine drag force using a control volume approach. Velocity profiles were obtained from pitot-static measurements and used to evaluate momentum loss in the flow. Numerical integration was applied to compute drag across multiple inlet velocities, revealing a nonlinear relationship consistent with bluff body aerodynamics.
Mission Context
Understanding drag forces on bluff bodies is critical in aerodynamic design. Direct force measurement can be difficult in experimental setups, so indirect methods based on wake analysis and momentum conservation provide a practical alternative.
System Architecture
A wind tunnel setup with a cylindrical test object and pitot-static probe was used to collect pressure data at multiple vertical positions downstream of the cylinder. The system captures wake velocity variations required for drag evaluation.
Technical Analysis
Pressure data was converted to velocity using Bernoulli-based relationships. The velocity deficit in the wake was used to compute the integrand representing momentum loss. Numerical integration using the trapezoidal rule was performed to evaluate the drag force for each run.
Validation and Performance
Results showed increasing drag with increasing inlet velocity, with a nonlinear trend observed in the data. The behavior aligns with expected aerodynamic theory, where drag is approximately proportional to the square of velocity for bluff bodies.
Role and Impact
Individual Project
- Data processing and unit conversion
- Velocity profile computation
- Numerical integration (trapezoidal rule)
- Drag force evaluation and analysis
- Graphing and result interpretation