An Updated Procedure for Tare and Interference Wind Tunnel Testing of Strut-Mounted Models

Abstract

Despite advances in modern computing and simulation, wind tunnel testing remains the most trusted method for determining aerodynamic vehicle behavior. Corrections are applied to accurately obtain results representative of free-air performance due to the presence of wind tunnel walls. The standard correction procedure adjusts for the presence of these boundaries using approximations based on linear potential flow theory. Separately,tare and interference removal involves the linear subtraction of mounting strut effects, accomplished using mirrored mounting systems. Uncertainty in wind tunnel data is quantified throughout each step in the data analysis procedure. Additionally, an updated procedure for the analysis and correction of wind tunnel data for strut mounted models is recommended.