Optimization of passive flow control above the ski jump ramp of an aircraft carrier by CFD and experimental investigation

Abstract

Aircraft carriers are a very useful operational tool for military operations. They are designed to provide service to aircraft at sea. For that reason studying the aerodynamic flow on their decks is essential. During take-off and landing maneuvers the aircraft can be affected by the turbulent flow generated by the non-aerodynamic surfaces that compose the geometry of the ship. Specifically, this study uses Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) applied to an aircraft carrier. The goal is to analyze and modify the flow detachment generated by the ski jump ramp on the flight deck that can affect the aircraft performances during take-off maneuvers. Passive flow control techniques such as holes in the ramp to allow airflow entering over the deck or aerodynamic devices added in the ramp corner have been tested. Different parameters of the devices have been studied and partial and even complete elimination of the flow detachment has been achieved. Finally, the numerical model has been compared with experimental wind-tunnel tests. They have demonstrated a full elimination of the flow detachment and up to 80% of turbulence intensity reduction above the ski jump ramp of the aircraft carrier.