Experimental investigation of multi-step airfoils in low Reynolds numbers applications

• DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e32919
• Publication Date: 2024-06-15T00:49:10Z
• Authors: Mohamed A. Aziz; Osama A. Gaheen; Ernesto Benini; Ahmed M. Elsayed
• Keywords: Stall (fluid mechanics); Lift (data mining)

This study provides a detailed analysis of the aerodynamic performance various airfoil configurations, focusing on lift coefficient, stall characteristics, and maximum lift-to-drag ratio. The investigation includes NACA23012C profile configurations with different step geometries, ranging from one-step to five-step designs. Experimental measurements were conducted using well-equipped laboratory, Institute Aviation Engineering Technology (IAET), Giza, Egypt. lab features wind tunnel, propeller test rig, data acquisition system. experiments meticulously ensure accuracy reproducibility, standardized method employed for uncertainty analysis. results reveal distinct behaviors among highlighting significant impact design variations performance. Notably, three-step configuration consistently exhibited high performance, competitive or superior coefficient across range Reynolds numbers, showing an improvement up 35.1 %. Similarly, four-step demonstrated substantial increases in ratios, reaching 53.2 %, while varying trends minimum drag coefficient. also investigated characteristics sensitivity revealing complex trade-offs inherent design. findings provide valuable insights into optimizing under operational conditions. Additionally, adoption two three stepped airfoils resulted reductions blade material associated costs turbine blades.