Computational Analysis to Improve the Aerodynamic Performance of NACA 0012 in Transonic Flow Using Raw Riblet Patterns

Abstract. Emission reduction is of global importance and a big challenge in the aviation industry. In this research project, the emission issue was addressed aerodynamically by improving the performance of wings in transonic flow. This improvement was achieved by implementing a Raw-riblet pattern at different locations on the top surface of the wing as this showed higher values of viscous drag. Viscous drag is a large composition of total drag and reducing them will help to reduce the fuel consumption of aircraft and effectively reduce the carbon emissions. Two types of designs named Low-depth (0.305) and Low-depth (0.455) patterns were developed based on the ‘Raw Riblet’. Computational analyses were carried out in the commercial code FLUENT with the help of the Spalart-Allmaras turbulence model to capture the viscous drag issues on the normal NACA 0012 wing at different angles of attack and solved them using the biomimetic patterns implemented. It was evidenced in this research work that the Low-depth (0.455) Raw Riblet pattern could reduce a significant amount of viscous drag on the NACA wing when compared to the Low-depth (0.305) pattern. Compatibility tests were done to check the suitability and stability of the model and mesh, respectively, and compared them to the experimental results. This research demonstrated the potential of surface texture-based solutions for aerodynamic design improvement and emission reduction.