Abstract

This study investigates the utilization of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to simulate aerodynamic heating effects in support of research and design endeavors. The initial investigation demonstrates the effectiveness of a computational approach in analyzing different geometries and flow conditions. Specifically, CFD is employed to analyze the aerodynamics of a blunt cone, double cone, and hypersonic leading edge experiencing a changing heat source across the flow/body boundary. At the stagnation point, maximum thermal loading occurs as previously found; therefore, boundary layer thickness and shock standoff distance is measured at that position to compare the results of each case. Characteristics such as temperature and pressure reveal shock and boundary layer distance and how the heat flux shifts the layers away from the body as its added into flow, and narrows the regions as the flow is cooled. For the more complex geometry of the double cone, two shocks are seen in adiabatic flow, but increasing heat flux into the flow pushes the shock layer further from the body until the shocks merge, causing drag reduction across the body; simulating an ablative heat shield that is burning. Overall, designs of a simpler nature are less influenced by heat flux, but more complex designs and regions demand considering heat flux, or even use it to an aerodynamic design advantage.

Notes

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Graduation Date

2023

Semester

Summer

Advisor

Kinzel, Michael

Degree

Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering (M.S.A.E.)

College

College of Engineering and Computer Science

Department

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Degree Program

Aerospace Engineering; Thermofluid Aerodynamic Systems

Identifier

CFE0009769; DP0027877

URL

https://purls.library.ucf.edu/go/DP0027877

Language

English

Release Date

August 2023

Length of Campus-only Access

None

Access Status

Masters Thesis (Open Access)

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