Analysis of Coupled Internal External Flow of Aircraft Configuration using Computational Fluid Dynamics

Drag is an undesirable but inevitable component of force in an Aircraft. In order to improve the performance of the Aircraft, it is desired to have a reduced Drag. In Fighter Aircrafts the accurate prediction of flow at various Altitude and Mach numbers will be helpful predict the performance of the Aircraft. At the intake of the Engine, the mass flow rate is restricted by the throttle control, and only desired mass of air enters the engine as per the requirements. Accurately simulating the flow rate inside the inlet duct up to Aerodynamic Interface Plane at the Engine face, the mass spillage is calculated from which the Air Intake spillage Drag is evaluated. Air Intake Spillage Drag and how it affects the Aircraft performance is analyzed in this study. Reduced spillage drag results in improved Aircraft performance thereby promotes energy efficient design.