Numerical Predictions of Static-Pressure-Error Corrections for a Modified T-38C Aircraft

Abstract

The objective of this work was to highlight modeling considerations for estimating the required static-pressure-error corrections using computational fluid dynamics. This work was performed to complement the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School activities that used a T-38C aircraft with a previously untested Pitot-static system. Before the flight test, it is highly desirable to have an estimate of how any modifications will affect sensor performance, and to possess the capability to explain any discrepancies from previous test programs. Estimates of this kind are only obtainable via wind-tunnel tests or through modeling and simulation. This work presents the computational fluid dynamics requirements and methodologies needed to estimate the static-pressure-error correction of a T-38C in the subsonic, transonic, and low supersonic regimes. Estimates are validated with flight-test results, and proposed solutions for further reduction of static-pressure error via modifications to the flight-tested Pitot-static-probe geometry are included.

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 15, 2014
Accession Number
ADA614715

Entities

People

  • Daniel A. Reasor Jr.
  • Keerti K. Bhamidipati
  • Reagan K. Woolf

Organizations

  • Air Force Test Center

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Engineered Resilient Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Aircraft Noses
  • Aircrafts
  • Boundary Layer
  • Computational Fluid Dynamics
  • Dynamic Pressure
  • Fluid Dynamics
  • Geometry
  • Mach Number
  • Measurement
  • Pressure Distribution
  • Pressure Gradients
  • Pressure Measurement
  • Simulations
  • Static Pressure
  • Wind Tunnel Tests
  • Wind Tunnels

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Aviation Science / Aeronautics.
  • Fluid Mechanics and Fluid Dynamics.
  • Regression Analysis.

Technology Areas

  • Hypersonics
  • Hypersonics - Hypersonic Flow