Description and Modeling of the Additive Manufacturing Technology for Aerodynamic Coefficients Measurement

Casting, machining and additive manufacturing technologies are used in order to produce wind tunnel testing models. The models can also be analyzed by computational fluid dynamics methods. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. Since several wind tunnel models are required to accomplish aerodynamic experiments, nowadays, one of the best methods for models and airfoils manufacturing are additive manufacturing technologies. These methods are increasingly used in aerospace industry. In this research, wing and tail of a wind tunnel test model which has complicated sections, are produced by fused deposition modeling technology. In order to improve mechanical properties and surface roughness an electroplating is used on the surface of a RP model. Metal models along with fused deposition modeling models and electroplating models were tested in wind tunnels with different angels of attack. Results indicated that aerodynamic coefficients of electroplating model with a chromium coating was closer to metal model than those of AM model without electroplating. Substituting conventionally made parts with electroplating models, saves both cost and time. These models can be used in wind tunnel tests and aerodynamic data have acceptable quality.