An Experimental Investigation of Support Strut Interference on a Three-Percent Fighter Model at High Angles of Attack
Abstract
A low-speed wind-tunnel investigation was conducted to examine the aerodynamic interference caused by support struts on a three-percent scale model of the YF-17 lightweight fighter prototype. The study was undertaken at the request of the NASA-Ames Research Center to obtain background data in support of an upcoming investigation in which a full-scale F/A-18 will be mounted in the 80x120 foot wind tunnel. Force and moment measurements were made for various strut configurations using a precision six-component strain gage balance. Flow visualization studies were also conducted using smoke injected upstream of the model and illuminated by a laser sheet to highlight flow phenomenon around the model. Results of the investigation indicate that only minor aerodynamic interference was caused by the strut configuration tested. Of the configurations tested, it was determined by a subjective analysis that a slight reduction in interference could be realized by attaching the forward struts to the wing tips and the aft strut to the tail hook pivot point. Keywords: High angle of attack; Aerodynamics; Strut interference; Flow visualization; Laser sheet; Balance measurements;
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA219793
Entities
People
- John D. Sommers
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School