Wind Tunnel Measurements of Lift and Drag Forces on Airfoils

John Vollmer, Matt Mondich, and Robert Kennedy

Department of Physics, Astronomy, and Geosciences

Faculty Sponsor: Dr. David M. Schaefer

(2004)

Wind tunnels are one of the most significant tools in aeronautical research. Engineers and scientists use them to study and design energy efficient and aerodynamic cars, trucks, and planes. They can also be used to investigate airflows around buildings and various other objects. In this study, an Aerolab open-circuit wind tunnel was used to examine the lift and drag forces on two NACA series airfoils, specifically the 0009 and the 0012, a sphere, and a teardrop. Prior to examination, the wind tunnel was redesigned with an aerodynamic force balance and an anemometer. The force balance consists of two components which independently measure the lift and drag of an object. Three Pasco force sensors were interfaced to a computer using a ScienceWorkshop 750 Interface and the forces analyzed using Pasco DataStudio software. From the forces, the lift and drag coefficients can be determined and will be related to the angle of attack. Additionally, the lift and drag coefficients obtained from the NACA airfoils will be compared with the coefficients measured by NASA.

Acknowledgements: Thanks to Research Machinist Robert Kuta of Towson University for design advice and helping build our force balance and airfoils. A special thanks to Dr. Jewel B. Barlow, the Director of Glenn M. Martin Wind Tunnel at the University of Maryland, for his time, keen insight, design advice, and assistance in all facets of this experiment.

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Updated July 9, 2004