Numerical Analysis of an External Flow-Field around a Formula SAE Car Body Based on FLUENT

Abstract

This paper proposed a method to analysis an external flow-field around a Formula SAE car. Firstly, the body of Formula SAE car was designed conforming to the FSAE rules using CATIA. Then, the model of the external flow-field around the vehicle was established using computational fluid dynamic technology. A comparative analysis of the aerodynamic characteristics was made for the body between the conditions of being without the wing package and being with the wing package under different attack angle to get the static pressure graph, the lift force and the drag force then worked out the drag coefficient and confirmed which is the most suitable angle for the wings. The results showed that: the static pressure of the front body, the front part of the tires and the driver’s chest and head is the highest; the body has good streamline since its drag coefficient is 0.385; the rear wings can supply 65% downforce, when the attack angle of the rear wing is set to 8°. Finally, the real mold was fabricated according to the above 3D model and the analysis results. The method presented in this paper can provide theoretical basis and technical parameter for the aerodynamic formation designing and amelioration of the Formula SAE cars. Also it has guiding significance for the design and aerodynamic analysis of the Ordinary Passenger car.