Abstract
Experimental fluid dynamics and aerodynamics research involves the development of models and prototypes for wind tunnel investigations. For instance, the aerodynamic research that focus on characterizing the aerodynamic behavior of airfoils would require machining airfoils with specific shapes and dimensions to fit in the wind tunnel and water tunnel facility as well as the machining hardware to attach airfoils to the existing force measurement tool. Fabricating these test articles using traditional machining tools is expensive and time-consuming. Recent advancements in manufacturing and three-dimensional (3D) printing technologies have significantly reduced the model fabrication time and cost. Here, we highlight the application of 3D printing technology that has reduced the fabrication time and cost, thereby aiding the researchers in performing complex and challenging experiments. A 3D-printed airfoil was used to study the impact of the rivets on the aerodynamic performance of the horizontal stabilizer of a small aircraft. The advancement in the fabrication process allowed us to design models of horizontal stabilizers with smooth surfaces and airfoils with standard protruding head rivets, callout #4. The wind tunnel aerodynamic testing demonstrated that there is a significant increase in the drag due to the rivets.