Discussion Forum

Here is a very simple model for finding drag and maybe lift in a turbulent flow. An example model like this would have helped me tremendously a few weeks ago so maybe it will help someone else. It is made in version 4.1.0.112.

Question:

I am looking at total stress in the X and Y directions integrated over the surface of the disc as indicators of lift and drag.

I modeled flow of air in positive X direction of 10 m/s, this is as if the object is traveling in negative X direction I believe. If that is true then drag induced stress should be in positive X direction (which it doesnt appear to be)

Results around a rectangle:
Stress in X= negative
Stress in Y= Positive

Flow around a disc shape:
Stress in X=negative
Stress in Y=negative (does this imply lift?)

can someone please expound on this a little, and if there are any glaring flaws in my approach point them out?

Thanks,

Alex